Polymeric material for an insulated container

ABSTRACT

A formulation includes a base resin, a nucleating agent, and a blowing agent. The formulation can be used to form a container.

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/866,741, filed Aug. 16, 2013 and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/949,126 filed Mar. 6, 2014, both of which are expressly incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to polymeric materials that can be formed to produce a container, and in particular, polymeric materials that insulate. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to polymer-based formulations that can be formed to produce an insulated non-aromatic polymeric material.

SUMMARY

A polymeric material in accordance with the present disclosure includes a polymeric resin and cell-forming agents. In illustrative embodiments, a blend of polymeric resins and cell-forming agents is extruded or otherwise formed to produce an insulated cellular non-aromatic polymeric material.

In illustrative embodiments, an insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material produced in accordance with the present disclosure can be formed to produce an insulative cup or other product. Polypropylene resin is used to form the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material in illustrative embodiments.

In illustrative embodiments, an insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material comprises a polypropylene base resin having a high melt strength, a polypropylene copolymer or homopolymer (or both), and cell-forming agents including at least one nucleating agent and a blowing agent such as carbon dioxide. In illustrative embodiments, the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material further comprises a slip agent. The polypropylene base resin has a broadly distributed unimodal (not bimodal) molecular weight distribution.

In illustrative embodiments, a polypropylene-based formulation in accordance with the present disclosure is heated and extruded in two stages to produce a tubular extrudate (in an extrusion process) that can be sliced to provide a strip of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material. A blowing agent in the form of an inert gas is introduced into a molten resin in the first extrusion stage in illustrative embodiments.

In illustrative embodiments, an insulative cup is formed using the strip of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material. The insulative cup includes a body including a sleeve-shaped side wall and a floor coupled to the body to cooperate with the side wall to form an interior region for storing food, liquid, or any suitable product. The body also includes a rolled brim coupled to an upper end of the side wall and a floor mount coupled to a lower end of the side wall and to the floor.

In illustrative embodiments, the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material is configured to provide means for enabling localized plastic deformation in at least one selected region of the body (e.g., the side wall, the rolled brim, the floor mount, and a floor-retaining flange included in the floor mount) to provide (1) a plastically deformed first material segment having a first density in a first portion of the selected region of the body and (2) a second material segment having a relatively lower second density in an adjacent second portion of the selected region of the body. In illustrative embodiments, the first material segment is thinner than the second material segment.

Additional features of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of illustrative embodiments exemplifying the best mode of carrying out the disclosure as presently perceived.

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS

The detailed description particularly refers to the accompanying figures in which:

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic and perspective view of a material-forming process in accordance with the present disclosure showing that the material-forming process includes, from left to right, a formulation of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material being placed into a hopper that is fed into a first extrusion zone of a first extruder where heat and pressure are applied to form molten resin and showing that a blowing agent is injected into the molten resin to form an extrusion resin mixture that is fed into a second extrusion zone of a second extruder where the extrusion resin mixture exits and expands to form an extrudate which is slit to form a strip of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an insulative cup made from a strip of material including the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material of FIG. 1 showing that the insulative cup includes a body and a floor and showing that four regions of the body have been broken away to reveal localized areas of plastic deformation that provide for increased density in those areas while maintaining a predetermined insulative characteristic in the body;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged sectional view of a portion of a side wall included in the body of the insulative cup of FIG. 2 showing that the side wall is made from a sheet that includes, from left to right, a skin including a film, an ink layer, and an adhesive layer, and the strip of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is an exploded assembly view of the insulative cup of FIG. 2 showing that the insulative cup includes, from top to bottom, the floor and the body including a rolled brim, the side wall, and a floor mount configured to interconnect the floor and the side wall as shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a sectional view taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 2 showing that the side wall included in the body of the insulative cup includes a generally uniform thickness and that the floor is coupled to the floor mount included in the body;

FIGS. 6-9 are a series of views showing first, second, third, and fourth regions of the insulative cup of FIG. 2 that each include localized plastic deformation;

FIG. 6 is a partial section view taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 2 showing the first region is in the side wall of the body;

FIG. 7 is a partial section view taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 2 showing the second region is in the rolled brim of the body;

FIG. 8 is a partial section view taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 2 showing the third region is in a connecting web included in the floor mount of the body;

FIG. 9 is a partial section view taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 2 showing the fourth region is in a web-support ring included in the floor mount of the body;

FIG. 10 is a graph showing performance over time of exemplary embodiments of insulative cups in accordance with the present disclosure undergoing temperature testing;

FIG. 11 is a graph showing hot temperature performance over time of insulative cups in accordance with the present disclosure undergoing temperature testing as described in Example 3 Insulation-Hot Test Method;

FIG. 12 is a graph showing hot temperature performance over time of insulative cups in accordance with the present disclosure undergoing temperature testing as described in Example 3 Insulation-Hot Test Method;

FIG. 13 is a graph showing cold temperature performance over time of insulative cups in accordance with the present disclosure undergoing temperature testing as described in Example 3 Insulation-Cold Test Method;

FIG. 14 is a graph showing cold temperature performance over time of insulative cups in accordance with the present disclosure undergoing temperature testing as described in Example 3 Insulation-Cold Test Method;

FIG. 15 is a photograph of a tray made from the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material;

FIG. 16 is a graph showing the external sidewall temperature over time of a cup tested in Example 6;

FIG. 17 is a graph showing the external sidewall temperature over time of a cup tested in Example 7;

FIG. 18 is a graph showing the external sidewall temperature over time of a cup tested in Example 8;

FIG. 19 is a graph showing the external sidewall temperature over time of a cup tested in Example 9; and

FIG. 20 is a graph showing the external sidewall temperature over time of a cup tested in Example 10.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material produced in accordance with the present disclosure can be formed to produce an insulative cup 10 as suggested in FIGS. 2-9. As an example, the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material comprises a polypropylene base resin having a high melt strength, a polypropylene copolymer or homopolymer (or both), and cell-forming agents including at least one nucleating agent and a blowing agent such as carbon dioxide. As a further example, the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material further comprises a slip agent. The polypropylene base resin has a broadly distributed unimodal (not bimodal) molecular weight distribution.

A material-forming process 100 uses a polypropylene-based formulation 121 in accordance with the present disclosure to produce a strip 82 of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material as shown in FIG. 1. Formulation 121 is heated and extruded in two stages to produce a tubular extrudate 124 that can be slit to provide strip 82 of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material as illustrated, for example, in FIG. 1. A blowing agent in the form of a liquefied inert gas is introduced into a molten resin 122 in the first extrusion zone.

Insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material is used to form insulative cup 10. Insulative cup 10 includes a body 11 having a sleeve-shaped side wall 18 and a floor 20 as shown in FIGS. 2 and 4. Floor 20 is coupled to body 11 and cooperates with side wall 18 to form an interior region 14 therebetween for storing food, liquid, or any suitable product. Body 11 also includes a rolled brim 16 coupled to an upper end of side wall 18 and a floor mount 17 interconnecting a lower end of side wall 18 and floor 20 as shown in FIG. 5.

Insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material is configured in accordance with the present disclosure to provide means for enabling localized plastic deformation in at least one selected region of body 11 (e.g., side wall 18, rolled brim 16, floor mount 17, and a floor-retaining flange 26 included in floor mount 17) to provide (1) a plastically deformed first material segment having a first density in a first portion of the selected region of body 11 and (2) a second material segment having a relatively lower second density in an adjacent second portion of the selected region of body 11 as suggested, for example, in FIGS. 2 and 6-9. In illustrative embodiments, the first material segment is thinner than the second material segment.

One aspect of the present disclosure provides a formulation for manufacturing an insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material. As referred to herein, an insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material refers to an extruded structure having cells formed therein and has desirable insulative properties at given thicknesses. Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a resin material for manufacturing an extruded structure of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material. Still another aspect of the present disclosure provides an extrudate comprising an insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material. Yet another aspect of the present disclosure provides a structure of material formed from an insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material. A further aspect of the present disclosure provides a container formed from an insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material.

In exemplary embodiments, a formulation includes at least two polymeric materials. In one exemplary embodiment, a primary or base polymer comprises a high melt strength polypropylene that has long chain branching. In one exemplary embodiment, the polymeric material also has non-uniform dispersity. Long chain branching occurs by the replacement of a substituent, e.g., a hydrogen atom, on a monomer subunit, by another covalently bonded chain of that polymer, or, in the case of a graft copolymer, by a chain of another type. For example, chain transfer reactions during polymerization could cause branching of the polymer. Long chain branching is branching with side polymer chain lengths longer than the average critical entanglement distance of a linear polymer chain. Long chain branching is generally understood to include polymer chains with at least 20 carbon atoms depending on specific monomer structure used for polymerization. Another example of branching is by crosslinking of the polymer after polymerization is complete. Some long chain branch polymers are formed without crosslinking. Polymer chain branching can have a significant impact on material properties. Originally known as the polydispersity index, dispersity is the measured term used to characterize the degree of polymerization. For example, free radical polymerization produces free radical monomer subunits that attach to other free radical monomers subunits to produce distributions of polymer chain lengths and polymer chain weights. Different types of polymerization reactions such as living polymerization, step polymerization, and free radical polymerization produce different dispersity values due to specific reaction mechanisms. Dispersity is determined as the ratio of weight average molecular weight to number average molecular weight. Uniform dispersity is generally understood to be a value near or equal to 1. Non-uniform dispersity is generally understood to be a value greater than 2. Final selection of a polypropylene material may take into account the properties of the end material, the additional materials needed during formulation, as well as the conditions during the extrusion process. In exemplary embodiments, high melt strength polypropylenes may be materials that can hold a gas (as discussed hereinbelow), produce desirable cell size, have desirable surface smoothness, and have an acceptable odor level (if any).

One illustrative example of a suitable polypropylene base resin is DAPLOY™ WB140 homopolymer (available from Borealis A/S), a high melt strength structural isomeric modified polypropylene homopolymer (melt strength=36, as tested per ISO 16790 which is incorporated by reference herein, melting temperature=325.4° F. (163° C.) using ISO 11357, which is incorporated by reference herein).

Borealis DAPLOY™ WB140 properties (as described in a Borealis product brochure):

Property Typical Value Unit Test Method Melt Flow Rate (230/2.16) 2.1 g/10 min ISO 1133 Flexural Modulus 1900 MPa ISO 178 Tensile Strength at Yield 40 MPa ISO 527-2 Elongation at Yield 6 % ISO 527-2 Tensile Modulus 2000 MPa ISO 527-2 Charpy impact strength, notched 3.0 kJ/m² ISO 179/1eA (+23° C.) Charpy impact strength, notched 1.0 kJ/m² ISO 179/1eA (−20° C.) Heat Deflection Temperature A 60 ° C. ISO 75-2 (at 1.8 MPa load) Method A Heat Deflection Temperature B 110 ° C. ISO 75-2 (at 0.46 MPa load) Method B

Other polypropylene polymers having suitable melt strength, branching, and melting temperature may also be used. Several base resins may be used and mixed together.

In certain exemplary embodiments, a secondary polymer may be used with the base polymer. The secondary polymer may be, for example, a polymer with sufficient crystallinity. The secondary polymer may also be, for example, a polymer with sufficient crystallinity and melt strength. In exemplary embodiments, the secondary polymer may be at least one crystalline polypropylene homopolymer, an impact polypropylene copolymer, mixtures thereof, or the like. One illustrative example is a high crystalline polypropylene homopolymer, available as F020HC from Braskem. Another illustrative example is an impact polypropylene copolymer commercially available as PRO-FAX SC204™ (available from LyndellBasell Industries Holdings, B.V.). Another illustrative example is Homo PP-INSPIRE 222, available from Braskem. Another illustrative example is the commercially available polymer known as PP 527K, available from Sabic. Another illustrative example is a polymer commercially available as XA-11477-48-1 from LyndellBasell Industries Holdings, B.V. In one aspect the polypropylene may have a high degree of crystallinity, i.e., the content of the crystalline phase exceeds 51% (as tested using differential scanning calorimetry) at 10° C./min cooling rate. In exemplary embodiments, several different secondary polymers may be used and mixed together.

In exemplary embodiments, the secondary polymer may be or may include polyethylene. In exemplary embodiments, the secondary polymer may include low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, high density polyethylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers, ethylene-ethylacrylate copolymers, ethylene-acrylic acid copolymers, polymethylmethacrylate mixtures of at least two of the foregoing and the like. The use of non-polypropylene materials may affect recyclability, insulation, microwavability, impact resistance, or other properties, as discussed further hereinbelow.

One or more nucleating agents are used to provide and control nucleation sites to promote formation of cells, bubbles, or voids in the molten resin during the extrusion process. Nucleating agent means a chemical or physical material that provides sites for cells to form in a molten resin mixture. Nucleating agents may be physical agents or chemical agents. Suitable physical nucleating agents have desirable particle size, aspect ratio, top-cut properties, shape, and surface compatibility. Examples include, but are not limited to, talc, CaCO₃, mica, kaolin clay, chitin, aluminosilicates, graphite, cellulose, and mixtures of at least two of the foregoing. The nucleating agent may be blended with the polymer resin formulation that is introduced into the hopper. Alternatively, the nucleating agent may be added to the molten resin mixture in the extruder. When the chemical reaction temperature is reached the nucleating agent acts to enable formation of bubbles that create cells in the molten resin. An illustrative example of a chemical blowing agent is citric acid or a citric acid-based material. After decomposition, the chemical blowing agent forms small gas cells which further serve as nucleation sites for larger cell growth from physical blowing agents or other types thereof. One representative example is Hydrocerol™ CF-40E™ (available from Clariant Corporation), which contains citric acid and a crystal nucleating agent. Another representative example is Hydrocerol™ CF-05E™ (available from Clariant Corporation), which contains citric acid and a crystal nucleating agent. In illustrative embodiments one or more catalysts or other reactants may be added to accelerate or facilitate the formation of cells.

In certain exemplary embodiments, one or more blowing agents may be incorporated. Blowing agent means a physical or a chemical material (or combination of materials) that acts to expand nucleation sites. Nucleating agents and blowing agents may work together. The blowing agent acts to reduce density by forming cells in the molten resin. The blowing agent may be added to the molten resin mixture in the extruder. Representative examples of physical blowing agents include, but are not limited to, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, helium, argon, air, water vapor, pentane, butane, other alkane mixtures of the foregoing and the like. In certain exemplary embodiments, a processing aid may be employed that enhances the solubility of the physical blowing agent. Alternatively, the physical blowing agent may be a hydrofluorocarbon, such as 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, also known as R134a, a hydrofluoroolefin, such as, but not limited to, 1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene, also known as HFO-1234ze, or other haloalkane or haloalkane refrigerant. Selection of the blowing agent may be made to take environmental impact into consideration.

In exemplary embodiments, physical blowing agents are typically gases that are introduced as liquids under pressure into the molten resin via a port in the extruder as suggested in FIG. 1. As the molten resin passes through the extruder and the die head, the pressure drops causing the physical blowing agent to change phase from a liquid to a gas, thereby creating cells in the extruded resin. Excess gas blows off after extrusion with the remaining gas being trapped in the cells in the extrudate.

Chemical blowing agents are materials that degrade or react to produce a gas. Chemical blowing agents may be endothermic or exothermic. Chemical blowing agents typically degrade at a certain temperature to decompose and release gas. In one aspect the chemical blowing agent may be one or more materials selected from the group consisting of azodicarbonamide; azodiisobutyro-nitrile; benzenesulfonhydrazide; 4,4-oxybenzene sulfonylsemicarbazide; p-toluene sulfonyl semi-carbazide; barium azodicarboxylate; N,N′-dimethyl-N,N′-dinitrosoterephthalamide; trihydrazino triazine; methane; ethane; propane; n-butane; isobutane; n-pentane; isopentane; neopentane; methyl fluoride; perfluoromethane; ethyl fluoride; 1,1-difluoroethane; 1,1,1-trifluoroethane; 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoro-ethane; pentafluoroethane; perfluoroethane; 2,2-difluoropropane; 1,1,1-trifluoropropane; perfluoropropane; perfluorobutane; perfluorocyclobutane; methyl chloride; methylene chloride; ethyl chloride; 1,1,1-trichloroethane; 1,1-dichloro-1-fluoroethane; 1-chloro-1,1-difluoroethane; 1,1-dichloro-2,2,2-trifluoroethane; 1-chloro-1,2,2,2-tetrafluoroethane; trichloromonofluoromethane; dichlorodifluoromethane; trichlorotrifluoroethane; dichlorotetrafluoroethane; chloroheptafluoropropane; dichlorohexafluoropropane; methanol; ethanol; n-propanol; isopropanol; sodium bicarbonate; sodium carbonate; ammonium bicarbonate; ammonium carbonate; ammonium nitrite; N,N′-dimethyl-N,N′-dinitrosoterephthalamide; N,N′-dinitrosopentamethylene tetramine; azobisisobutylonitrile; azocyclohexylnitrile; azodiaminobenzene; benzene sulfonyl hydrazide; toluene sulfonyl hydrazide; p,p′-oxybis(benzene sulfonyl hydrazide); diphenyl sulfone-3,3′-disulfonyl hydrazide; calcium azide; 4,4′-diphenyl disulfonyl azide; and p-toluene sulfonyl azide.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, where a chemical blowing agent is used, the chemical blowing agent may be introduced into the resin formulation that is added to the hopper.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, the blowing agent may be a decomposable material that forms a gas upon decomposition. A representative example of such a material is citric acid or a citric-acid based material. In one exemplary aspect of the present disclosure it may be possible to use a mixture of physical and chemical blowing agents.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, at least one slip agent may be incorporated into the resin mixture to aid in increasing production rates. Slip agent (also known as a process aid) is a term used to describe a general class of materials which are added to a resin mixture and provide surface lubrication to the polymer during and after conversion. Slip agents may also reduce or eliminate die drool. Representative examples of slip agent materials include amides of fats or fatty acids, such as, but not limited to, erucamide and oleamide. In one exemplary aspect, amides from oleyl (single unsaturated C₁₈) through erucyl (C₂₂ single unsaturated) may be used. Other representative examples of slip agent materials include low molecular weight amides and fluoroelastomers. Combinations of two or more slip agents can be used. Slip agents may be provided in a master batch pellet form and blended with the resin formulation. One example of a slip agent that is commercially available as AMPACET™ 102109 Slip PE MB. Another example of a slip agent that is commercially available is AMAPACET™ 102823 Process Aid PE MB.

One or more additional components and additives optionally may be incorporated, such as, but not limited to, impact modifiers, colorants (such as, but not limited to, titanium dioxide), and compound regrind. One example of a commercially available colorant is COLORTECH® blue-white colorant. Another example of a commercially available colorant is COLORTECH® j11 white colorant.

The polymer resins may be blended with any additional desired components and melted to form a resin formulation mixture.

In addition to surface topography and morphology, another factor that was found to be beneficial to obtain a high quality insulative cup free of creases was the anisotropy of the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric strip. Aspect ratio is the ratio of the major axis to the minor axis of the cell. As confirmed by microscopy, in one exemplary embodiment the average cell dimensions in a machine direction 67 (machine or along the web direction) of an extruded strip 82 of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material was about 0.0362 inches (0.92 mm) in width by about 0.0106 inches (0.27 mm) in height. As a result, a machine direction cell size aspect ratio is about 3.5. The average cell dimensions in a cross direction (cross-web or transverse direction) was about 0.0205 inches (0.52 mm) in width and about 0.0106 inches (0.27 mm) in height. As a result, a cross-direction aspect ratio is 1.94. In one exemplary embodiment, it was found that for the strip to withstand compressive force during cup forming, one desirable average aspect ratio of the cells was between about 1.0 and about 3.0. In one exemplary embodiment one desirable average aspect ratio of the cells was between about 1.0 and about 2.0.

The ratio of machine direction to cross direction cell length is used as a measure of anisotropy of the extruded strip. In exemplary embodiments, a strip of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material may be bi-axially oriented, with a coefficient of anisotropy ranging between about 1.5 and about 3. In one exemplary embodiment, the coefficient of anisotropy was about 1.8.

If the circumference of the cup is aligned with machine direction 67 of extruded strip 82 with a cell aspect ratio exceeding about 3.0, deep creases with depth exceeding about 200 microns are typically formed on inside surface of the cup making it unusable. Unexpectedly, it was found, in one exemplary embodiment, that if the circumference of the cup was aligned in the cross direction of extruded strip 82, which can be characterized by cell aspect ratio below about 2.0, no deep creases were formed inside of the cup, indicating that the cross direction of extruded strip 82 was more resistant to compression forces during cup formation.

One possible reason for greater compressibility of an extruded strip with cells having aspect ratio below about 2.0 in the direction of cup circumference, such as in the cross direction, could be due to lower stress concentration for cells with a larger radius. Another possible reason may be that the higher aspect ratio of cells might mean a higher slenderness ratio of the cell wall, which is inversely proportional to buckling strength. Folding of the strip into wrinkles in the compression mode could be approximated as buckling of cell walls. For cell walls with longer length, the slenderness ratio (length to diameter) may be higher. Yet another possible factor in relieving compression stress might be a more favorable polymer chain packing in cell walls in the cross direction allowing polymer chain re-arrangements under compression force. Polymer chains are expected to be preferably oriented and more tightly packed in machine direction 67.

In exemplary embodiments, alignment of the formed cup circumference along the direction of the extruded strip has a cell aspect ratio below about 2.0. As a result, the surface of extruded strip with crystal domain size below about 100 angstroms facing inside the cup may provide favorable results of achieving a desirable surface topography with imperfections less than about 5 microns deep.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, the polypropylene resin (either the base or the combined base and secondary resin) may have a density in a range of about 0.01 g/cm³ to about 0.19 g/cm³. In one exemplary embodiment, the density may be in a range of about 0.05 g/cm³ to about 0.19 g/cm³. In one exemplary embodiment, the density may be in a range of about 0.1 g/cm³ to about 0.185 g/cm³.

In an alternative exemplary embodiment, instead of polypropylene as the primary polymer, a polylactic acid material may be used, such as, but not limited to, a polylactic acid material derived from a food-based material, for example, corn starch. In one exemplary embodiment, polyethylene may be used as the primary polymer.

In one exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, one formulation for a material useful in the formation of an insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material includes the following: at least one primary resin comprising a high melt strength long chain branched polypropylene, at least one secondary resin comprising a high crystalline polypropylene homopolymer or an impact copolymer, at least one nucleating agent, at least one blowing agent, and at least one slip agent. Optionally, a colorant may be incorporated.

The formulation may be introduced into an extruder via a hopper, such as that shown in FIG. 1. During the extrusion process the formulation is heated and melted to form a molten resin mixture. In exemplary embodiments, at least one physical blowing agent is introduced into the molten resin mixture via one or more ports in the extruder. The molten resin mixture and gas is then extruded through a die.

In another exemplary embodiment, the formulation may contain both at least one chemical blowing agent and at least one physical blowing agent.

Cups or other containers or structures may be formed from the sheet according to conventional apparatus and methods.

For the purposes of non-limiting illustration only, formation of a cup from an exemplary embodiment of a material disclosed herein will be described; however, the container may be in any of a variety of possible shapes or structures or for a variety of applications, such as, but not limited to, a conventional beverage cup, storage container, bottle, or the like. For the purpose of nonlimiting illustration only, a liquid beverage will be used as the material which can be contained by the container; however, the container may hold liquids, solids, gels, combinations thereof, or other materials.

A material-forming process 100 is shown, for example, in FIG. 1. Material-forming process 100 extrudes a non-aromatic polymeric material into a sheet or strip of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material 82 as suggested in FIG. 1. As an example, material-forming process 100 uses a tandem-extrusion technique in which a first extruder 111 and a second extruder 112 cooperate to extrude strip of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material 82.

As shown in FIG. 1, a formulation 101 of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material 82 is loaded into a hopper 113 coupled to first extruder 111. The formulation 101 may be in pellet, granular flake, powder, or other suitable form. Formulation 101 of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material is moved from hopper 113 by a screw 114 included in first extruder 111. Formulation 101 is transformed into a molten resin 102 in a first extrusion zone of first extruder 111 by application of heat 105 and pressure from screw 114 as suggested in FIG. 1. In exemplary embodiments, a physical blowing agent 115 may be introduced and mixed into molten resin 102 after molten resin 102 is established. In exemplary embodiments, as discussed further herein, the physical blowing agent may be a gas introduced as a pressurized liquid via a port 115A and mixed with molten resin 102 to form a molten extrusion resin mixture 103, as shown in FIG. 1.

Extrusion resin mixture 103 is conveyed by screw 114 into a second extrusion zone included in second extruder 112 as shown in FIG. 1. There, extrusion resin mixture 103 is further processed by second extruder 112 before being expelled through an extrusion die 116 coupled to an end of second extruder 112 to form an extrudate 104. As extrusion resin mixture 103 passes through extrusion die 116, gas 115 comes out of solution in extrusion resin mixture 103 and begins to form cells and expand so that extrudate 104 is established. As an exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the extrudate 104 may be formed by an annular extrusion die 116 to form a tubular extrudate. A slitter 117 then cuts extrudate 104 to establish a sheet or strip 82 of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material as shown in FIG. 1.

Extrudate means the material that exits an extrusion die. The extrudate material may be in a form such as, but not limited to, a sheet, strip, tube, thread, pellet, granule or other structure that is the result of extrusion of a polymer-based formulation as described herein through an extruder die. For the purposes of illustration only, a sheet will be referred to as a representative extrudate structure that may be formed, but is intended to include the structures discussed herein. The extrudate may be further formed into any of a variety of final products, such as, but not limited to, cups, containers, trays, wraps, wound rolls of strips of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material, or the like.

As an example, strip 82 of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material is wound to form a roll of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material and stored for later use. However, it is within the scope of the present disclosure for strip 82 of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material to be used in-line with the cup-forming process. In one illustrative example, strip 82 of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material is laminated with a skin having a film and an ink layer printed on the film to provide high-quality graphics.

An insulative cup 10 is formed using a strip 82 of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. Insulative cup 10 includes, for example, a body 11 having a sleeve-shaped side wall 18 and a floor 20 coupled to body 11 to cooperate with the side wall 18 to form an interior region 14 for storing food, liquid, or any suitable product as shown in FIG. 2. Body 11 also includes a rolled brim 16 coupled to an upper end of side wall 18 and a floor mount 17 coupled to a lower end of side wall 18 and to the floor 20 as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 7.

Body 11 is formed from a strip 82 of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material as disclosed herein. In accordance with the present disclosure, strip 82 of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material is configured through application of pressure and heat (though in exemplary embodiments, configuration may be without application of heat) to provide means for enabling localized plastic deformation in at least one selected region of body 11 to provide a plastically deformed first sheet segment having a first density located in a first portion of the selected region of body 11 and a second sheet segment having a second density lower than the first density located in an adjacent second portion of the selected region of body 11 without fracturing the sheet of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material so that a predetermined insulative characteristic is maintained in body 11.

A first 101 of the selected regions of body 11 in which localized plastic deformation is enabled by the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material is in sleeve-shaped side wall 18 as suggested in FIGS. 2, 5, and 6. Sleeve-shaped side wall 18 includes an upright inner tab 514, an upright outer tab 512, and an upright fence 513 as suggested in FIGS. 2, 5, and 6. Upright inner tab 514 is arranged to extend upwardly from floor 20 and configured to provide the first sheet segment having the first density in the first 101 of the selected regions of body 11. Upright outer tab 512 is arranged to extend upwardly from floor 20 and to mate with upright inner tab 514 along an interface I therebetween as suggested in FIG. 6. Upright fence 513 is arranged to interconnect upright inner and outer tabs 514, 512 and surround interior region 14. Upright fence 513 is configured to provide the second sheet segment having the second density in the first 101 of the selected regions of body 11 and cooperate with upright inner and outer tabs 514, 513 to form sleeve-shaped side wall 18 as suggested in FIGS. 2-5.

A second 102 of the selected regions of body 11 in which localized plastic deformation is enabled by the sheet of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material is in rolled brim 16 included in body 11 as suggested in FIGS. 2, 4, 5, and 7. Rolled brim 16 is coupled to an upper end of sleeve-shaped side wall 18 to lie in spaced-apart relation to floor 20 and to frame an opening into interior region 14. Rolled brim 16 includes an inner rolled tab 164, an outer rolled tab 162, and a rolled lip 163 as suggested in FIGS. 2, 4, 5, and 7. Inner rolled tab 164 is configured to provide the first sheet segment in the second 102 of the selected regions of body 11. Inner rolled tab 164 is coupled to an upper end of upright outer tab 512 included in sleeve-shaped side wall 18. Outer rolled tab 162 is coupled to an upper end of upright inner tab 514 included in sleeve-shaped side wall 18 and to an outwardly facing exterior surface of inner rolled tab 164. Rolled lip 163 is arranged to interconnect oppositely facing side edges of each of inner and outer rolled tabs 164, 162. Rolled lip 163 is configured to provide the second sheet segment having the second density in the second 102 of the selected region of body 11 and cooperate with inner and outer rolled tabs 164, 162 to form rolled brim 16 as suggested in FIG. 2.

A third 103 of the selected regions of body 11 in which localized plastic deformation is enabled by the sheet of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material is in a floor mount included in body 11 as suggested in FIGS. 2, 5, and 8. Floor mount 27 is coupled to a lower end of sleeve-shaped side wall 18 to lie in spaced-apart relation to rolled brim 16 and to floor 20 to support floor 20 in a stationary position relative to sleeve-shaped side wall 18 to form interior region 14. Floor mount 17 includes a web-support ring 126, a floor-retaining flange 26, and a web 25. Web-support ring 126 is coupled to the lower end of sleeve-shaped side wall 18 and configured to provide the second sheet segment having the second density in the third 103 of the selected regions of body 11. Floor-retaining flange 26 is coupled to floor 20 and arranged to be surrounded by web-support ring 126. Web 25 is arranged to interconnect floor-retaining flange 26 and web-support ring 126. Web 25 is configured to provide the first sheet segment having the first density in the third 103 of the selected regions of body 11.

A fourth 104 of the selected regions of body 11 in which localized plastic deformation is enabled by the sheet of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material is in floor-retaining flange of floor mount 17 as suggested in FIGS. 2, 5, and 9. Floor-retaining flange 26 includes an alternating series of upright thick and thin staves arranged in side-to-side relation to extend upwardly from web 25 toward interior region 14 bounded by sleeve-shaped side wall 18 and floor 20. A first 261 of the upright thick staves is configured to include a right side edge extending upwardly from web 25 toward interior region 14. A second 262 of the upright thick staves is configured to include a left side edge arranged to extend upwardly from web 25 toward interior region 14 and lie in spaced-apart confronting relation to right side edge of the first 261 of the upright thick staves. A first 260 of the upright thin staves is arranged to interconnect left side edge of the first 261 of the upright thick staves and right side edge of the second 262 of the upright thick staves and to cooperate with left and right side edges to define therebetween a vertical channel 263 opening inwardly into a lower interior region bounded by floor-retaining flange 26 and a horizontal platform 21 included in floor 20 and located above floor-retaining flange 26. The first 260 of the upright thin staves is configured to provide the first sheet segment in the fourth 104 of the selected regions of body 11. The first 261 of the upright thick staves is configured to provide the second sheet segment in the fourth 104 of the selected regions of the body 11.

The compressibility of the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material used to produce insulative cup 10 allows the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material to be prepared for the mechanical assembly of insulative cup 10, without limitations experienced by other non-aromatic polymeric materials. The cellular nature of the material provides insulative characteristics as discussed below, while susceptibility to plastic deformation permits yielding of the material without fracture. The plastic deformation experienced when the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material is subjected to a pressure load is used to form a permanent set in the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material after the pressure load has been removed. In some locations, the locations of permanent set are positioned to provide controlled gathering of the sheet of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material.

The plastic deformation may also be used to create fold lines in the sheet to control deformation of the sheet when being worked during the assembly process. When deformation is present, the absence of material in the voids formed by the deformation provides relief to allow the material to be easily folded at the locations of deformation.

A potential unexpected feature of the sheet of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material formed as described herein is the high insulation value obtained at a given thickness. See, for example, Examples 1 and 2 below.

A potential feature of a cup formed of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure is that the cup has low material loss. Furthermore, the material of the present disclosure may have markedly low off-gassing when subjected to heat from a conventional kitchen-type microwave oven for periods of time up to several minutes.

Another potential feature of a cup formed of the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material according to the present disclosure is that the cup can be placed in and go through a conventional residential or commercial dishwasher cleaning cycle (top rack) without noticeable structural or material breakdown or adverse affect on material properties. This is in comparison to beaded expanded polystyrene cups or containers which can break down under similar cleaning processes. Accordingly, a cup made according to one aspect of the present disclosure can be cleaned and reused.

Another potential feature of an article formed of the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material according to various aspects of the present disclosure is that the article can be recycled. Recyclable means that a material can be added (such as regrind) back into an extrusion or other formation process without segregation of components of the material, i.e., an article formed of the material does not have to be manipulated to remove one or more materials or components prior to re-entering the extrusion process. For example, a cup having a printed film layer laminated to the exterior of the cup may be recyclable if one does not need to separate out the film layer prior to the cup being ground into particles. In contrast, a paper-wrapped expanded polystyrene cup may not be recyclable because the polystyrene material could not practicably be used as material in forming an expanded polystyrene cup, even though the cup material may possibly be formed into another product. As a further example, a cup formed from a non-expanded polystyrene material having a layer of non-styrene printed film adhered thereto may be considered non-recyclable because it would require the segregation of the polystyrene cup material from the non-styrene film layer, which would not be desirable to introduce as part of the regrind into the extrusion process.

Recyclability of articles formed from the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material of the present disclosure minimizes the amount of disposable waste created. In comparison, beaded expanded polystyrene cups break up into beads and thus ordinarily cannot easily be reused in a manufacturing process with the same material from which the article was formed. And, paper cups that typically have an extrusion coated plastic layer or a plastic lamination for liquid resistance ordinarily cannot be recycled because the different materials (paper, adhesive, film, and plastic) normally cannot be practicably separated in commercial recycling operations.

A potential feature of a cup or other article formed of material according to one aspect (a non-laminate process) of the present disclosure is that the outside (or inside or both) wall surface of the insulative cellular non-aromatic polypropylene sheet (prior to being formed into a cup, or during cup formation, depending on the manufacturing process employed) can accept printing of high-resolution graphics. Conventional beaded expanded polystyrene cups have a surface which typically is not smooth enough to accept printing other than low-resolution graphics. Similarly, known uncoated paper cups also typically do not have a smooth enough surface for such high-resolution graphics. Paper cups can be coated to have the desired surface finish and can achieve high resolution. Paper has difficulty reaching insulation levels and requires a designed air gap incorporated into or associated with the cup to achieve insulation, such as a sleeve slid onto and over a portion of the cup. Accordingly, solutions have been to use low-resolution printing, laminate to the outside wall a film which has been printed, or to have a printed sleeve (either bonded or removable) inserted over the outside wall or coat the paper to accept high resolution graphics.

A potential feature of a cup formed of the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material according to one aspect of the present disclosure is that it possesses unexpected strength as measured by rigidity. Rigidity is a measurement done at room temperature and at an elevated temperature (e.g., by filling the cup with a hot liquid), at a lowered temperature (e.g., by filling the cup with cold liquid), and measuring the rigidity of the material. The strength of the cup material is important to reduce the potential for the cup being deformed by a user and the lid popping off or the lid or sidewall seal leaking.

A potential feature of a cup formed of the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material according to the present disclosure is that the sleeve is resistant to puncture, such as by a straw, fork, spoon, finger nail, or the like, as measured by standard impact testing, as described hereinbelow. Test materials demonstrated substantially higher impact resistance when compared to a beaded expanded polystyrene cup. Accordingly, a cup formed as described herein can reduce the likelihood of puncture and leakage of hot liquid onto a user.

A feature of a cup with a compressed brim and seam formed of the material according to one aspect as described herein is that a greater number of such cups can be nested in a given sleeve length because the seam is thinner and the side wall angle can be minimized (i.e., more approaching 90° with respect to the cup bottom) while providing a sufficient air gap to permit easy de-nesting. Conventionally seam-formed cups having a seam substantially thicker than the side wall requires a greater side wall angle (and air gap) to allow for de-nesting, resulting in fewer cups being able to be nested in a given sleeve length.

A feature of a cup formed of the material according to one aspect of the present disclosure is that the brim may have a cross-section profile of less than about 0.170 inches (4.318 mm) which may be due to localized cell deformation and compression. Such a small profile is more aesthetically pleasing than a larger profile.

A feature of a cup formed of the material according to one aspect of the present disclosure is that the rolled brim diameter can be the same for cups of different volumes, enabling one lid size to be used for different cup sizes, assuming the cup rims outside diameters are the same. As a result, the number of different size lids in inventory and at the point of use may be reduced.

The material formulation may have properties that allow the sheet to be compressed without fracturing.

A potential feature of a cup formed of the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material according to one aspect of the present disclosure is that the cup may expel physical blowing agents in the form of gas and undergo gas exchange with ambient to fill in foam cell voids. As a result, blowing agents or mixture of blowing agents may be detected.

A potential feature of a cup formed of the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material according to one aspect of the present disclosure is that the cup may undergo crystallization curing due to cooling with ambient air and environment. As a result, cup rigidity will increase with unexpected strength.

The insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material of the present disclosure may be formed into a strip which can be wrapped around other structures. For example, a strip of the material according to one aspect of the present disclosure that can be used as a wrapping material may be formed and wrapped around a pipe, conduit, or other structure to provide improved insulation. The sheet or strip may have a layer of adhesive, such as a pressure sensitive adhesive, applied to one or both faces. The strip may be wound onto a roll. Optionally, the strip may have a release liner associated therewith to make unwinding the strip from the roll easier. The polymer formulation may be adapted to provide the requisite flexibility to form a wrap or windable strip, for example, by using one or more polypropylene or other polyolefin materials that have sufficient flexibility to enable the extruded sheet to be flexible enough to be wound onto a roll. The insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material may be formed into a sleeve that can be inserted over a cup to provide additional insulation.

In exemplary embodiments, sheets formed from the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material of the present disclosure may be cut at the die or be flaked and used as a bulk insulator.

The formulation and insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material of the present disclosure satisfies a long-felt need for a material that can be formed into an article, such as a cup, that includes many if not all of the features of insulative performance, ready for recyclability, puncture resistance, frangibility resistance, microwavability and other features as discussed herein. Others have failed to provide a material that achieves combinations of these features as reflected in the appended claims. This failure is a result of the features being associated with competitive design choices. As an example, others have created materials and structures therefrom that based on design choices are insulated but suffer from poor puncture resistance, inability to effectively be recyclable, and lack microwavability. In comparison, the formulations and materials disclosed herein overcome the failures of others by using an insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material. Reference is hereby made to U.S. application Ser. No. 13/491,007 filed Jun. 7, 2012 and entitled INSULATED CONTAINER for disclosure relating to articles, such as cups, formed from such insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric materials, which application is hereby incorporated in its entirety herein.

It is within the scope of the present disclosure to select an amount of a nucleating agent to be one of the following values: about 0%, 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2%, 2.5%, 3%, 4%, and 5% of the total formulation of the polymeric layer by weight percentage. It is also within the scope of the present disclosure for the weight percentage (w/w) of a nucleating agent, such as talc (e.g., HT4HP or HT6HP), to fall within one of many different ranges. In a first set of ranges, the weight percentage of a nucleating agent is one of the following ranges: about 0.1% to 20% (w/w), 0.25% to 20%, 0.5% to 20%, 0.75% to 20%, 1% to 20%, 1.5% to 20%, 2% to 20%, 2.5% to 20%, 3% to 20%, 4% to 20%, 4.5% to 20%, and 5% to 20%. In a second set of ranges, the range of a nucleating agent is one of the following ranges: about 0.1% to 10%, 0.25% to 10%, 0.5% to 10%, 0.75% to 10%, 1% to 10%, 1.5% to 10%, 2% to 10%, 3% to 10%, 4% to 10%, and 5% to 10% of the total formulation of the polymeric layer by weight percentage. In a third set of ranges, the range of a nucleating agent is one of the following ranges: about 0.1% to 5%, 0.25% to 5%, 0.5% to 5%, 0.75% to 5%, 1% to 5%, 1.5% to 5%, 2% to 5%, 2.5% to 5%, 3% to 5%, 3.5% to 5%, 4% to 5%, and 4.5% to 5% of the total formulation of the polymeric layer by weight percentage. In an embodiment, the polymeric material lacks a nucleating agent.

The amount of a chemical blowing agent may be one of several different values or fall within one of several different ranges. It is within the scope of the present disclosure to select an amount of a chemical blowing agent to be one of the following values: about 0%, 0.1%, 0.5%, 0.75%, 1%, 1.5%, or 2% of the total formulation of the polymeric layer by weight percentage. It is within the scope of the present disclosure for the amount of a physical nucleating agent in the formulation to fall within one of many different ranges. In a first set of ranges, the range of a chemical blowing agent is one of the following ranges: about 0% to 5%, 0.1% to 5%, 0.25% to 5%, 0.5% to 5%, 0.75% to 5%, 1% to 5%, 1.5% to 5%, 2% to 5%, 3% to 5%, and 4% to 5% of the total formulation of the polymeric layer by weight percentage. In a second set of ranges, the range of a chemical blowing agent is one of the following ranges: about 0.1% to 4%, 0.1% to 3%, 0.1% to 2%, and 0.1% to 1% of the total formulation by weight percentage. In a third set of ranges, the range of a chemical blowing agent is one of the following ranges: about 0.25% to 4%, 0.75% to 4%, 1% to 4%, 1.5% to 4%, 2% to 4%, 3% to 4%, 0% to 3%, 0.25% to 3%, 0.5% to 3%, 0.75% to 3%, 1% to 3%, 1.5%, to 3%, 2% to 3%, 0% to 2%, 0.25% to 2%, 0.5%, to 2%, 0.75% to 2%, 1% to 2%, 1.5% to 2%, 0% to 1%, 0.5% to 1%, and 0.75% to 1% of the total formulation of the polymeric layer by weight percentage. In one aspect of the present disclosure, where a chemical blowing agent is used, the chemical blowing agent may be introduced into the material formulation that is added to the hopper.

The amount of a slip agent may be one of several different values or fall within one of several different ranges. It is within the scope of the present disclosure to select an amount of a slip agent to be one of the following values: about 0%, 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, or 10% of the total formulation of the polymeric layer by weight percentage. It is within the scope of the present disclosure for the amount of a slip agent in the formulation to fall within one of many different ranges. In a first set of ranges, the range of a slip agent is one of the following ranges: about 0% to 10% (w/w), 0.5% to 10%, 1% to 10%, 2% to 10%, 3% to 10%, 4% to 10%, 5% to 10%, 6% to 10%, 7% to 10%, 8% to 10%, and 9% to 10% of the total formulation of the polymeric layer by weight percentage. In a second set of ranges, the range of a slip agent is one of the following ranges: about 0% to 9%, 0% to 8%, 0% to 7%, 0% to 6%, 0% to 5%, 0% to 4%, 0% to 3%, 0% to 2%, 0% to 1%, and 0% to 0.5% of the total formulation of the polymeric layer by weight percentage. In a third set of ranges, the range of a slip agent is one of the following ranges: about 0.5% to 5%, 0.5% to 4%, 0.5% to 3%, 0.5%, to 2%, 1% to 2%, 1% to 3%, 1% to 4%, 1% to 5%, 2% to 3%, 2% to 4%, and 2% to 5% of the total formulation by weight percentage. In an embodiment, the formulation lacks a slip agent.

The amount of a colorant may be one of several different values or fall within one of several different ranges. It is within the scope of the present disclosure to select an amount of a colorant to be one of the following values: about 0%, 0.1%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 1.5%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, or 20% of the total formulation of the polymeric layer by weight percentage. It is within the scope of the present disclosure for the amount of a colorant in the formulation to fall within one of many different ranges. In a first set of ranges, the range of a colorant is one of the following ranges: about 0% to 20% (w/w), 0% to 10%, 0% to 5%, and 0% to 4%. In a second set of ranges, the range of a colorant is one of the following ranges: about 0.1% to 4%, 0.25% to 4%, 0.5% to 4%, 0.75% to 4%, 1% to 4%, 1.5% to 4%, 2% to 4%, 2.5% to 4%, and 3% to 4% of the total formulation of the polymeric layer by weight percentage. In a third set of ranges, the range of a colorant is one of the following ranges: about 0% to 3%, 0% to 2.5%, 0% to 2.25%, 0% to 2%, 0% to 1.5%, 0% to 1%, 0% to 0.5%, 0.1% to 3.5%, 0.1% to 3%, 0.1% to 2.5%, 0.1% to 2%, 0.1% to 1.5%, 0.1% to 1%, 1% to 5%, 1% to 10%, 1% to 15%, 1% to 20%, and 0.1% to 0.5% of the total formulation by weight percentage. In an embodiment, the formulation lacks a colorant.

In illustrative embodiments, a polymeric material includes a primary base resin. In illustrative embodiments, a base resin may include polypropylene. In illustrative embodiments, an insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material comprises a polypropylene base resin having high melt strength, a polypropylene copolymer or homopolymer (or both). It is within the scope of the present disclosure to select an amount of base resin to be one of the following values: about 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, 99.5%, and 99.9% of the total formulation of the polymeric layer by weight percentage. It is within the present disclosure for the amount of base resin in the formulation to fall within one of many different ranges. In a first set of ranges, the range of base resin is one of the following ranges: about 50% to 99.9%, 70% to 99.9%, 80% to 99.9%, 85% to 99.9%, 90% to 99.9%, 95% to 99.9%, 98% to 99.9%, and 99% to 99.9% of the total formulation of the polymeric layer by weight percentage. In a second set of ranges, the range of base resin is one of the following ranges: about 85% to 99%, 85% to 98%, 85% to 95%, and 85% to 90% of the total formulation of the polymeric layer by weight percentage. In a third set of ranges, the range of base resin is one of the following ranges: about 50% to 99%, 50% to 95%, 50% to 85%, 55% to 85%, 80% to 90%, 80% to 95%, 90% to 99%, and 95% to 98% of the total formulation by weight percentage. Each of these values and ranges is embodied in Examples 1 to 12. As defined hereinbefore, any suitable primary base resin may be used.

In illustrative embodiments, a polymeric material includes a secondary resin, wherein the secondary resin can be a polypropylene copolymer or homopolymer (or both). It is within the present disclosure for an amount of secondary base resin in the formulation to fall within one of many different ranges. In a first set of ranges, the range of base resin is one of the following ranges: about 0% to 50%, 0% to 30%, 0% to 25%, 0% to 20%, 0% to 15%, 0% to 10%, and 0% to 5% of the total formulation of the polymeric layer by weight percentage. In a second set of ranges, the range of secondary base resin is one of the following ranges: about 10% to 50%, 10% to 40%, 10% to 30%, 10% about 25%, 10% to 20%, and 10% to 15% of the total formulation of the polymeric layer by weight percentage. In a third set of ranges, the range of secondary base resin is one of the following ranges: about 1% to 5% and 5% to 10% of the total formulation by weight percentage. In an embodiment, a polymeric material lacks a secondary resin. In a particular embodiment, a secondary resin can be a high crystalline polypropylene homopolymer, such as F020HC (available from Braskem) or PP 527K (available from Sabic). In an embodiment, a polymeric material lacks a secondary resin.

EXAMPLES

The following examples are set forth for purposes of illustration only. Parts and percentages appearing in such examples are by weight unless otherwise stipulated. All ASTM, ISO and other standard test method cited or referred to in this disclosure are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Example 1 Formulation and Extrusion

DAPLOY™ WB140 polypropylene homopolymer (available from Borealis A/S) was used as the polypropylene base resin. F020HC, available from Braskem, a polypropylene homopolymer resin, was used as the secondary resin. The two resins were blended with: Hydrocerol™ CF-40E™ as a primary nucleation agent, talc as a secondary nucleation agent, CO₂ as a blowing agent, a slip agent, and titanium dioxide as a colorant. Percentages were:

79.9% Primary resin: high melt strength polypropylene Borealis WB140 HMS 15% Secondary resin: F020HC (Braskem) 0.1% Primary nucleating agent: Clariant Hyrocerol CF-40E ™ 2% Secondary nucleating agent: Talc 1% Colorant: TiO₂ PE (alternatively, PP can be used) 2% Slip agent: Ampacet ™ 102823 LLDPE (linear low-density polyethylene), available from Ampacet Corporation

The formulation was added to an extruder hopper. The extruder heated the formulation to form a molten resin mixture. To this mixture was added

-   -   1.1 lbs/hr CO₂     -   0.7 lbs/hr R134a.

The carbon dioxide with R134a was injected into the resin blend to expand the resin and reduce density. The mixture thus formed was extruded through a die head into a sheet. The sheet was then cut and formed into a cup.

Example 1 Test Results

The test results of the material formed according to Example 1 showed the material had a density of about 0.1902 g/cm³ and a nominal sheet gauge of about 0.089 inches (2.2606 mm).

Microwavability

Containers produced using this material filled with 12 ounces of room temperature water were heated in a FISO Microwave Station (1200 Watts) microwave oven for 2.5 min without burning or scorching or other visible effect on the cup. In comparison, paper cups heated in the same microwave oven scorched or burned in less than 90 seconds.

Rigidity

Test Method

Samples were at 73° F. (22.8° C.) and 50% relative humidity. The Cup Stiffness/Rigidity test was conducted with a horizontal force gauge containing a load cell to measure the resisting force of the cup when exposed to the following test conditions: (a) The test location on the cup was ⅓ down from the rim of the cup; (b) testing travel distance is 0.25 inches (6.35 mm); and (c) testing travel time was 10 seconds.

Test Results

With an average wall thickness of about 0.064 inches (1.6256 mm), average density of about 0.1776 g/cm³, and average cup weight of about 9.86 g, the rigidity of the material is shown below in Tables 1-2.

TABLE 1 Rigidity Test Results unlidded/unfilled Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 1 0.64 0.654 0.647 2 0.646 0.672 0.659 3 0.632 0.642 0.637 4 0.562 0.608 0.585 5 0.652 0.596 0.624 0.630 STD DEV 0.028 3sigma 0.085 High Range 0.716 Low Range 0.545 lidded/unfilled Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 6 0.89 0.83 0.860 7 0.954 0.904 0.929 8 0.846 0.808 0.827 9 0.732 0.826 0.779 10 0.87 0.792 0.831 0.845 STD DEV 0.055 3sigma 0.165 High Range 1.011 Low Range 0.680 unlidded/filled 200° F. Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 11 0.274 0.290 0.282 12 0.278 0.326 0.302 13 0.264 0.274 0.269 14 0.300 0.270 0.285 15 0.252 0.280 0.266 0.281 STD DEV 0.014 3sigma 0.043 High Range 0.324 Low Range 0.238 lidded/filled 200° F. Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 16 0.346 0.354 0.350 17 0.386 0.422 0.404 18 0.358 0.364 0.361 19 0.338 0.374 0.356 20 0.304 0.272 0.288 0.352 STD DEV 0.042 3sigma 0.125 High Range 0.476 Low Range 0.227 unlidded/filled ice water Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 21 0.796 0.730 0.763 22 0.818 0.826 0.822 23 0.894 0.760 0.827 24 0.776 0.844 0.810 25 0.804 0.714 0.759 0.796 STD DEV 0.033 3sigma 0.098 High Range 0.894 Low Range 0.698 lidded/filled ice water Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 26 1.044 0.892 0.968 27 1.146 1.018 1.082 28 0.988 1.054 1.021 29 1.012 1.106 1.059 30 0.826 1.058 0.942 1.014 STD DEV 0.059 3sigma 0.177 High Range 1.192 Low Range 0.837

TABLE 2 Summary of Rigidity Test Results in Table 1 Unfilled Kg-F Ice Water Fill 35° F. Wall (kilograms-force) Hot Fill 200° F. Kg-F Kg-F Thickness Density Unlidded Lidded Unlidded Lidded Unlidded Lidded Inches g/cc Test material 0.630 0.845 0.281 0.352 0.796 1.014 0.064 0.1776

Insulation

Test Method

A typical industrial cup insulation test method as follows was used:

-   -   Attach the (cup exterior) surface temperature thermocouple to         the cup with glue.     -   Tape attached thermocouple to cup with cellophane tape so that         the thermocouple is in the middle of the cup opposite the seam.     -   Heat water or other aqueous liquid to near boiling, such as in a         microwave.     -   Continually stir the hot liquid with a bulb thermometer while         observing the liquid temperature.     -   Record thermocouple temperature.     -   When the liquid gets to 200° F. (93.3° C.) pour into the cup to         near full.     -   Place lid on the cup.     -   Record surface temperature for a minimum of 5 minutes.

Material thickness was about 0.089 inches (2.2606 mm). The density was about 0.1902 g/cm³.

A cup formed from the formulation noted above was used having a density of about 0.190 g/cm³ and a wall thickness of about 0.089 inches. A hot liquid at 200° F. was placed in the cup.

Test Results

The temperature measured on the outside wall of the cup was about 140.5° F. (60.3° C.) resulting in drop of about 59.5° F. (33° C.). The maximum temperature over a 5-minute period was observed to peak at about 140.5° F. (60.3° C.). The lower the temperature, the better the insulation property of the cup material as the material reduces the heat transferring from the liquid to the cup material exterior.

Frangibility

Frangibility can be defined as resistance to tear or punctures causing fragmentation.

Test Method

The Elmendorf test method described in ASTM D1922-93 was used. The radius of tear was 1.7 inches (43.18 mm).

Test Results

The test results are shown in Tables 3-4 below. The material as formed in one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure provides superior resistance to tear forces when compared to EPS.

TABLE 3 Test Results Machine Direction (gram force) Transverse Direction (gram force) Test Test Test Test Test std Test Test Test Test Test std Tag 1 2 3 4 5 mean dev. 1 2 3 4 5 mean dev. Test 288 262 288 258 315 282 23 232 213 178 205 232 212 23 Material EPS 108 114 112 116 110 112 3 *

TABLE 4 Summary of Test Results in Table 3 Test material cup Tear Strength Sample ID → (mean) Elmendorf Tear machine direction (MD) Arm g (gram) 800 Elmendorf Tear MD gf (gram force) 282 Elmendorf Tear transverse direction (TD) Arm g 800 Elmendorf Tear TD gf 212 Expanded polystyrene Tear Strength (mean) Elmendorf Tear Arm 800 Elmendorf Tear 112

Note that there was no data obtained for the transverse direction test for expanded polystyrene because expanded polystyrene does not have a material orientation, i.e., a machine or transverse direction, due to the manufacturing process. The range (calculated as: lower range=mean−(3×std dev); upper range=mean+(3×std dev)) for the tested material of the present disclosure was about 213 grams-force to about 351 grams-force in the machine direction and about 143 grams-force to about 281 grams-force in the transverse direction. In comparison, the range of the expanded polystyrene material tested was about 103 grams-force to about 121 grams-force.

Puncture Resistance

Test Method

Determine the force and travel needed to puncture cup sidewall and bottom. An Instron instrument is used in compression mode set to 10 inches (254 mm) per minute travel speed. The cup puncture test fixture on base of Instron is used. This fixture allows the cup to fit over a shape that fits inside the cup with a top surface that is perpendicular to the travel of the Instron tester. The one inch diameter hole of the fixture should be positioned up. The portion of the Instron that moves should be fitted with a 0.300 inch (7.62 mm) diameter punch. The punch with the hole is aligned in the test fixture. The cup is placed over the fixture and the force and travel needed to puncture the cup sidewall is recorded. The sidewall puncture test is repeated in three evenly spaced locations while not puncture testing on the seam of the cup. The bottom of the cup is tested. This should be done in the same manner as the sidewall test except no fixture is used. The cup is just placed upside down on the base of the Instron while bringing the punch down on the center of the cup bottom.

Test Results

Results of the typical sidewall puncture and the bottom puncture are shown in Table 5 below.

TABLE 5 Puncture Test Results Cavity # Max Load (lbf) Ext. @ Max Load (in) Expanded polystyrene 3.79 0.300 tested insulative cellular 22.18 0.292 non-aromatic polymeric material (No Rim)

Slow Puncture Resistance—Straw

Test Method

The material as formed in one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure provides superior resistance to punctures when compared to expanded polystyrene using the Slow Puncture Resistance Test Method as described in ASTM D-3763-86. The test results are shown in Tables 6-9 below.

Test Results

TABLE 6 Tested Material Elongation At Specimen # Peak Load g(f) Break (mm) 1 13876.49 — 2 13684.33 — 3 15121.53 — 4 15268.95 17 5 14970.47 20 6 13049.71 — 7 15648.44 17 8 15352.38 23 9 18271.37 — 10 16859.29 — Mean 15210.30 19 Std. Dev. 1532.83 3

TABLE 7 Comparison: Expanded Polystyrene Elongation At Specimen # Peak Load g(f) Break (mm) 1 2936.73 — 2 2870.07 10 3 2572.62 — 4 2632.44 — 5 2809.70 — 6 2842.93 — 7 2654.55 — 8 2872.96 — 9 2487.63 — 10 2866.53 — 11 2803.25 — 12 2775.22 — 13 2834.28 — 14 2569.97 — Mean 2752.06 10 Std. Dev. 140.42 —

TABLE 8 Paper Wrapped Expanded Polystyrene Elongation At Specimen # Peak Load g(f) Break (mm) 1 7930.61 — 2 10044.30 — 3 9849.01 — 4 8711.44 — 5 9596.79 — 6 9302.99 — 7 10252.27 — 8 7785.64 — 9 8437.28 — 10 6751.98 — 11 9993.19 — Mean 8968.68 — Std. Dev. 1134.68 —

TABLE 9 Summary of Slow Puncture-Straw Test Results in Tables 6-8 Sample ID Tested insulative cellular Paper non-aromatic wrapped polymeric Expanded expanded material cup polystyrene polystyrene (mean) (mean) (mean) grams-force grams-force grams-force (gf) (gf) (gf) Average gf: 15210 2752 8969

Example 2 Formulation and Extrusion

The following formulation was used:

-   -   81.70% Borealis WB140HMS primary polypropylene     -   0.25% Amco A18035 PPRO talc filled concentrate     -   2% Ampacet 102823 Process Aid PE MB linear low density         polyethylene slip agent     -   0.05% Hydrocerol CF-40E chemical foaming agent     -   1% Colortech 11933-19 colorant     -   15% Braskem F020HC high crystallinity homopolymer polypropylene     -   3.4 lbs/hour of CO₂ was introduced into the molten resin.

Density of the strip formed ranged from about 0.155 g/cm³ to about 0.182 g/cm³.

The formulation was added to an extruder hopper. The extruder heated the formulation to form a molten resin mixture. To this mixture was added the CO₂ to expand the resin and reduce density. The mixture thus formed was extruded through a die head into a strip 82. The strip was then cut and formed into insulative cup 10.

Example 2 Test Results

In exemplary embodiments, a tube of extruded insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material has two surfaces that are formed under different cooling conditions when the material is extruded. One surface, which will be further referenced as the outside surface of extruded tube, is in contact with air, and does not have physical barriers restricting the expansion. The outside surface of extruded tube surface is cooled by blowing compressed air at cooling rate equal or higher than 12° F. per second. Surface on the opposite side will be referenced as inside of extruded tube. The inside of extruded tube surface is formed when the extruded tube is drawn in the web or machine direction on the metal cooling surface of the torpedo mandrel that is physically restricting the inside of extruded tube and is cooled by combination of water and compressed air at a cooling rate below 10° F. per second. In exemplary embodiments, the cooling water temperature is about 135° F. (57.22° C.). In exemplary embodiments, the cooling air temperature is about 85° F. (29.44° C.). As a result of different cooling mechanisms, the outside surface of extruded tube and inside surface of extruded tube have different surface characteristics. It is known that the cooling rate and method affects the crystallization process of polypropylene altering its morphology (size of crystal domains) and topography (surface profile and smoothness).

An unexpected feature of exemplary embodiments of an extruded sheet as described herein is in the ability of the sheet to form a noticeably smooth, crease and wrinkle free surface, when curved to form a round article, such as cup. The surface is smooth and wrinkle free even inside the cup, where compression forces typically cause material to crush crease easily, especially for low density material with large cell size. In exemplary embodiments, the smoothness of the surface of an extruded sheet of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material as detected by microscopy is such that the depth of the indentations (creases or wrinkles) naturally occurring in the outside and inside of the cup surface when it is subject to extension and compression forces during cup formation may be less than about 100 microns. In one exemplary embodiment, the smoothness may be less than about 50 microns. In one exemplary embodiment, the smoothness may be about 5 microns or less. At about 10 microns depth and less, the micro-wrinkles on cup surface are ordinarily not visible to the naked eye.

In one exemplary embodiment, an insulative cup formed from a sheet comprising a skin and a strip of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material had typical creases (deep wrinkle) about 200 microns deep extending from the top to bottom of the cup. In one exemplary embodiment, an insulative cup formed from a sheet comprising a strip of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material only (without a skin) had typical creases about 200 microns deep extending from top to bottom of the cup. Such creases with depths from about 100 microns to about 500 microns are typically formed when inside of extruded tube is facing inside of the cup in a compression mode. Creases and deep wrinkles may present a problem of unsatisfactory surface quality making final cups unusable or undesirable. Creases may form in instances where sheets include a skin or exclude a skin.

In exemplary embodiments, the insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material may be extruded as strip. However microscopy images show that two distinct layers exist within the extruded strip, namely, dull outside extruded tube layer and shiny inside extruded tube layer. The difference between the two layers is in reflectance of the surface due to the difference in crystal domain size. If a black marker is used to color the surface examined by microscope, reflectance is eliminated and the difference between the two surfaces may be minimal or undetectable.

In one exemplary embodiment, a sample strip was prepared without any skin. Black marker was used to eliminate any difference in reflectance between the layers. Images showed that the cell size and cell distribution was the same throughout the strip thickness. A crease of about 200 microns deep was seen as a fold in the surface where the cell wall collapsed under the compression forces.

Differential scanning calorimetry analysis conducted on a TA Instruments DSC 2910 in nitrogen atmosphere showed that with an increase in cooling rate, the crystallization temperature and crystallinity degree decreased for the polymer matrix material of the strip, as shown below in Table 10.

TABLE 10 Crystallization of polymer matrix Crystallization temp, in ° C. Crystallinity degree, in % Slow Fast Slow Fast cooling 10° C./ cooling cooling 10° C./ cooling 5° C./min min 15° C./min 5° C./min min 15° C./min 135.3 131.5 129.0 49.2 48.2 47.4 Melting (2^(nd) heat) of polymer matrix (heating rate 10° C./min) after crystallization Melting temp, ° C. Crystallinity degree, % Slow Fast Slow Fast cooling 10° C./ cooling cooling 10° C./ cooling 5° C./min min 15° C./min 5° C./min min 15° C./min 162.3 162.1 161.8 48.7 47.2 46.9

Differential scanning calorimetry data demonstrates the dependence of crystallization and subsequent 2^(nd) heat melting temperature and percent crystallinity on the rate of cooling during crystallization. Exemplary embodiments of a strip of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material may have the melting temperature between about 160° C. (320° F.) and about 172° C. (341.6° F.), crystallization temperature between about 108° C. (226.4° F.) and about 135° C. (275° F.), and percent crystallinity between about 42% and about 62%.

In exemplary embodiments, the extruded sheet as determined by differential scanning calorimetry at 10° C. per minute heating and cooling rate had a melting temperature of about 162° C. (323.6° F.), crystallization temperature of about 131° C. (267.8° F.) and crystallinity degree of about 46%.

It was found unexpectedly that the outside extrusion tube surface works favorably in a compression mode without causing appreciable creasing and therefore a cup (or other structure) may advantageously be made with the outside extrusion tube surface facing inside of the insulative cup. The difference in the resistance of the inside extrusion tube layer and outside extrusion tube layer to compression force may be due to difference in the morphology of the layers because they were crystallized at different cooling rates.

In exemplary embodiments of formation of an extruded sheet, the inside extrusion tube surface may be cooled by combination of water cooling and compressed air. The outside extrusion tube surface may be cooled by compressed air by using torpedo with circulating water and air outlet. Faster cooling rates may result in the formation of smaller size crystals. Typically, the higher the cooling rate, the greater the relative amount of smaller crystals that are formed. X-Ray diffraction analysis of an exemplary extruded sheet of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material was conducted on Panalytical X'pert MPD Pro diffractometer using Cu radiation at 45 KV/40 mA. It was confirmed that the outside extrusion tube surface had a crystal domain size of about 99 angstroms, while the inside extrusion tube surface had a crystal domain size of about 114 angstroms. In exemplary embodiments, an extruded strip of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material may have a crystal domain size below about 200 angstroms. In exemplary embodiments, an extruded strip of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material may have a crystal domain size preferably below about 115 angstroms. In exemplary embodiments, an extruded strip of insulative cellular non-aromatic polymeric material may have a crystal domain size below about 100 angstroms.

Rigidity

Test Method

The test method is the same as described for rigidity testing in Example 1.

Test Results

The rigidity test results are shown in Table 11 below.

TABLE 11 unlidded/filled 200° F. lidded/filled 200° F. Rigidity (kg-F) Rigidity (kg-F) 90° from 90° from Gram Wall Sample# Seam Seam Average Seam Seam Average Weights Thickness Density B1 0.354 0.380 0.367 0.470 0.528 0.499 12.6 0.0744 0.1817 B2 0.426 0.464 0.445 0.598 0.610 0.604 13.0 B3 0.526 0.494 0.510 0.628 0.618 0.623 12.4 B4 0.592 0.566 0.579 0.740 0.746 0.743 13.2 12.80 0.475 0.617

Insulation

Test Method—Wall Temperature

An insulative cup formed from the formulation noted above was used having a density of about 0.18 g/cm³ and a wall thickness of about 0.074 inches (1.8796 mm). A hot liquid at 200° F. (93.3° C.) was placed in the cup.

Test Results

The temperature measured on the outside wall of the cup was about 151° F. (66.1° C.) with a drop of about 49.0° F. (27.2° C.). The maximum temperature over a five-minute period was observed to peak at about 151° F. (66.1° C.).

Insulation testing in the form of thermal conductivity was done.

Test Method—Thermal Conductivity

This test measures bulk thermal conductivity (W/m-K), measured at ambient temperature and at 93° C. (199.4° F.). A ThermTest TPS 2500 S Thermal Constants Analyzer instrument was used, employing the test method of ISO/DIS 22007-2.2 and using the Low Density/High Insulating option. The TPS sensor #5501 0.2521 inch radius (6.403 mm radius) with Kapton® insulation was used for all measurements. A 20 second test was done, using 0.02 Watts power. Data using points 100-200 were reported.

Test Results

The test results are shown in Table 12 below.

TABLE 12 Mean Thermal Conductivity Results Mean Thermal Conductivity Standard Deviation Temp. (° C.) (W/m-K) (W/m-K) 21 0.05792 0.00005 93 0.06680 0.00025

Example 3 Formulation and Extrusion

DAPLOY™ WB140 polypropylene homopolymer (available from Borealis A/S) was used as the polypropylene base resin. F020HC, available from Braskem, a polypropylene homopolymer resin, was used as the secondary resin. The two resins were blended with: Hydrocerol™ CF-40E™ as a chemical blowing agent, talc as a nucleation agent, CO₂ as a physical blowing agent, a slip agent, and COLORTECH® blue-white as a colorant. The colorant can be added to the base resin or to the secondary resin and may be done prior to mixing of the two resins. Percentages were:

81.4%  Primary Resin: Borealis WB140 HMS high melt strength homopolymer polypropylene  15% Secondary Resin: Braskem F020HC homopolymer polypropylene 0.1% Chemical Blowing Agent: Clariant Hyrocerol CF-40E ™ 0.5% Nucleation Agent: Heritage Plastics HT4HP Talc   1% Colorant: COLORTECH ® blue white   2% Slip agent: AMPACET ™ 102823 Process Aid LLDPE (linear low-density polyethylene), available from Ampacet Corporation 2.2 lbs/hr CO₂ physical blowing agent introduced into the molten resin

Density of the strip formed ranged from about 0.140 g/cm³ to about 0.180 g/cm³.

The formulation was added to an extruder hopper. The extruder heated the formulation to form a molten resin mixture. To this mixture was added the CO₂ to expand the resin and reduce density. The mixture thus formed was extruded through a die head into a strip. The strip was then cut and formed into insulative cup.

The carbon dioxide was injected into the resin blend to expand the resin and reduce density. The mixture thus formed was extruded through a die head into a sheet. The sheet was then cut and formed into a cup.

Example 3 Test Results

The test results of the material formed according to Example 3 showed the material had a density of about 0.1615 g/cm³ and a nominal sheet gauge of about 0.066 inches (1.6764 mm).

Microwavability

Containers produced using this material were filled with 12 ounces of room temperature water and were heated in a FISO™ Microwave Station (1200 Watts) microwave oven for 2.5 minutes without burning or scorching or other visible effect on the container. In comparison, paper cups heated in the same microwave oven scorched or burned in less than 90 seconds. In comparison, polyethylene terephthalate (PTFE) foam cups heated in the same microwave oven showed heavy distortion with visible effect after 2.5 minutes.

Rigidity

Test Method

Cup samples were at 72° F. (22.2° C.) and 50% relative humidity. The Cup Stiffness/Rigidity test was conducted with a horizontal force gauge containing a load cell to measure the resisting force of the cup when exposed to the following test conditions: (a) The test location on the cup was ⅓ down from the brim of the cup; (b) testing travel distance is 0.25 inches (6.35 mm); and (c) testing travel time was 10 seconds.

Test Results

With an average wall thickness of about 0.066 inches (1.7018), average density of about 0.1615 g/cm³, and average cup weight of about 11.5 g, the rigidity of the material is shown below in Tables 13-14.

TABLE 13 Rigidity Test Results Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average Unlidded/Unfilled 72° F. 1 0.624 0.650 0.637 2 0.636 0.619 0.628 3 0.691 0.649 0.670 4 0.635 0.621 0.628 5 0.610 0.607 0.609 0.634 STD DEV 0.023 3sigma 0.068 High Range 0.702 Low Range 0.567 Lidded/Unfilled 72° F. 6 1.202 1.172 1.187 7 1.206 1.162 1.184 8 1.078 1.270 1.174 9 1.067 1.163 1.115 10 1.164 1.004 1.084 1.149 STD DEV 0.047 3sigma 0.140 High Range 1.289 Low Range 1.009 Unlidded/Filled 200° F. 11 0.276 0.271 0.274 12 0.297 0.288 0.293 13 0.316 0.306 0.311 14 0.313 0.281 0.297 15 0.294 0.287 0.291 0.293 STD DEV 0.013 3sigma 0.040 High Range 0.333 Low Range 0.252 Lidded/Filled 200° F. 16 0.472 0.502 0.487 17 0.472 0.512 0.492 18 0.520 0.550 0.535 19 0.518 0.500 0.509 20 0.500 0.528 0.514 0.507 STD DEV 0.019 3sigma 0.057 High Range 0.565 Low Range 0.450 Unlidded/Filled 33° F. 21 1.014 1.065 1.040 22 1.017 1.053 1.035 23 1.063 1.128 1.096 24 1.065 1.038 1.052 25 1.019 1.074 1.047 1.054 STD DEV 0.024 3sigma 0.073 High Range 1.127 Low Range 0.981 lidded/filled 33° F. 26 1.726 1.816 1.771 27 1.916 1.972 1.944 28 1.85 1.856 1.853 29 1.718 1.781 1.750 30 1.789 1.881 1.835 1.831 STD DEV 0.077 3sigma 0.230 High Range 2.060 Low Range 1.601

TABLE 14 Summary of Rigidity Test Results in Table 13 Unfilled 70° F. Hot Fill 200° F. Ice Water Fill 33° F. Wall Kg-F (kilograms-force) Kg-F Kg-F Thickness Density Unlidded Lidded Unlidded Lidded Unlidded Lidded Inches g/cc Test material 0.634 1.149 0.293 0.507 1.054 1.831 0.066 0.171

Insulation

Hot Test Method

A typical industrial cup insulation test method as follows was used for temperature testing:

-   -   1. Attach the (cup exterior) surface temperature thermocouple to         the cup with glue.     -   2. Tape attached thermocouple to cup with cellophane tape so         that the thermocouple is in the middle of the cup opposite the         seam.     -   3. Heat water or other aqueous liquid to near boiling, such as         in a microwave.     -   4. Continually stir the hot liquid with a bulb thermometer while         observing the liquid temperature.     -   5. Record thermocouple temperature.     -   6. When the liquid gets to 200° F. (93.3° C.) pour into the cup         to near full.     -   7. Place lid on the cup.     -   8. Record surface temperature for a minimum of 5 minutes.

Density and thickness of the material was measured at the testing spot upon testing completion. The density was about 0.1615 g/cm³. Material thickness was about 0.066 inches (1.6764 mm). The average cup weight was about 11.5 g.

Test Results

A hot liquid at about 200° F. (93.3° C.) was placed in the cup for about 5 minutes. The liquid was able to maintain a temperature of about 192° F. (88.9° C.) after 5 minutes. The temperature of the water inside the cup is shown below in Table 15.

TABLE 15 Summary of Water Temperature Inside the Cup Temperature (° F.) 0 1 2 3 4 5 Cup # Minute Minute Minute Minute Minute Minute #1 201.0  198.4  196.8  195.0  193.6  192.1  #2 200.8  198.6  196.8  195.5  193.7  192.3  #3 199.8  197.4  195.7  194.3  192.9  191.2  #4 199.9  197.3  195.9  194.1  192.6  191.0  AVER- 200.4  197.9  196.3  194.7  193.2  191.7  AGE STD  0.59  0.65  0.60  0.62  0.57  0.66 DEV

Five minutes after hot liquid introduction, the temperature measured on the outside surface wall of the cup was about 120.8° F. (49.3° C.), resulting in difference of about 71.2° F. (39.6° C.) compared to internal water temperature. The maximum temperature over a five-minute period was observed to peak at about 135.5° F. (57.5° C.). The lower the surface temperature and the higher the internal water temperature, the better the insulative property of the cup material as the material minimizes heat transfer between the liquid and the exterior of the cup material. With a density of about 0.1615 g/cm³, a wall thickness of about 0.066 inches, and a cup weight of about 11.5 g, the cup surface temperature and water temperature data are shown in FIGS. 11-12.

Cold Test Method

A typical industrial cup insulation test method as follows was used for temperature testing:

-   -   1. Refrigerate overnight ice pitcher with water     -   2. Attach the (cup exterior) surface temperature thermocouple to         cup with glue.     -   3. Tape attached thermocouple to cup with cellophane tape so         that the thermocouple is in the middle of the cup opposite the         seam.     -   4. Take out refrigerated overnight ice pitcher with water     -   5. Observe the liquid temperature with a bulb thermometer     -   6. Record thermocouple temperature.     -   7. Pour refrigerated liquid (32.5° F.) into cup to near full.     -   8. Place lid on cup.     -   9. Record surface temperature for a minimum of 10 minutes.

Density and thickness of the material was measured at the testing spot of upon testing completion. The density was about 0.1615 g/cm³. Material thickness was about 0.066 inches (1.6764 mm). The average cup weight was about 11.5 g.

Test Results

A cold liquid at about 32.5° F. (0.28° C.) was placed in the cup for about 10 minutes. The liquid was able to maintain a temperature of about 33.7° F. (0.94° C.) after 10 minutes. The temperature of the water inside the cup is shown below in Table 16.

TABLE 16 Summary of Water Temperature Inside the Cup Temperature (° F.) 0 2 4 6 8 10 Cup # Minute Minute Minute Minute Minute Minute #1 32.85 32.85 32.97 33.12 33.23 33.34 #2 33.01 33.28 33.85 34.11 34.72 35.02 #3 33.56 32.58 32.62 32.66 32.72 32.77 AVER- 32.81 32.9  33.15 33.30 33.56 33.71 AGE STD  0.23  0.35  0.63  0.74  1.04  1.17 DEV

Ten minutes after cold liquid introduction, the temperature measured on the outside surface wall of the cup was about 51.9° F. (11.06° C.), resulting in difference of about 18.2° F. (10.12° C.) compared to internal water temperature. The minimum temperature over a ten-minute period was observed to bottom out at about 50.5° F. (10.28° C.). The higher the surface temperature and the lower the internal water temperature, the better the insulative property of the cup material as the material minimizes heat transfer between the exterior of the cup material and the liquid. With a density of about 0.1615 g/cm³, a wall thickness of about 0.066 inches, and a cup weight of about 11.5 g, the cup surface temperature and water temperature data is shown below in FIGS. 13-14.

Example 4 Process for Formation of a Tray

A sheet of material as disclosed herein can be made by a single or double lamination process.

The sheet was laminated (can be done on one or both sides) with cast polypropylene film about 0.002 inches thick, set up in an off-line thermoforming process, (although an in-line process is also possible).

Roll stock was loaded on the machine. Roll stock was fed into an oven where the material was heated in the oven to provide proper forming conditions. Matched (male-female) metal tooling formed the heated sheet to the desired dimensions. Matched metal tooling was used to create definition on core and cavity sides of the part. Process variables, such as vacuum and form air, may or may not be used. The sheet thus formed was trimmed. Trimming can be done in mold, or post trimmed. The tray in this Example 4 was post trimmed, where the formed article remained in the web, as it continued to a trim press where it was trimmed from the web. FIG. 15 shows a tray that was formed in accordance with the present disclosure.

Frangibility

Frangibility can be defined as resistance to tear or punctures causing fragmentation.

Test Method

The Elmendorf test method described in ASTM D1922-93 was used. The radius of tear was 1.7 inches (43.18 mm).

Test Results

The test results are shown in Tables 17-18 below. The material as formed in one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure provides superior resistance to tear forces in both foam side-top and foam side-bottom orientations when compared to EPS.

TABLE 17 Test Results Machine Direction (gram force) Transverse Direction (gram force) Test Test Test Test Test std Test Test Test Test Test std Tag 1 2 3 4 5 mean dev. 1 2 3 4 5 mean dev. Test 243 277 246 293 304 273 27 205 178 258 227 227 219 30 Material (Top) Test 312 296 274 296 312 298 16 266 213 219 219 189 221 28 Material (Bottom) EPS 108 114 112 116 110 112 3 *

TABLE 18 Summary of Test Results Sample ID Test material cup Tear Strength (mean) Elmendorf Tear machine direction g (gram) 1600 (MD) Arm [Top] Elmendorf Tear MD [Top] gf (gram force) 273 Elmendorf Tear machine direction g 1600 (MD) Arm [Bottom] Elmendorf Tear MD [Bottom] gf 298 Elmendorf Tear transverse direction g 1600 (TD) Arm [Top] Elmendorf Tear TD [Top] gf 219 Elmendorf Tear transverse direction g 1600 (TD) Arm [Bottom] Elmendorf Tear TD [Bottom] gf 221 Expanded polystyrene Tear Strength (mean) Elmendorf Tear Arm 800 Elmendorf Tear 112

Note that there were no data obtained for the transverse direction test for expanded polystyrene because expanded polystyrene does not have a material orientation, i.e., a machine or transverse direction, due to the manufacturing process. The lamination as formed in one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure provided unexpected tear resistance to the material. The range (calculated as: lower range=mean−(3×std dev); upper range=mean+(3×std dev)) for the tested material was about 191 grams-force to about 354 grams-force in the machine direction and about 129 grams-force to about 308 grams-force in the transverse direction for top foam orientation. The range for the tested material was about 251 grams-force to about 345 grams-force in the machine direction and about 138 grams-force to about 305 grams-force in the transverse direction for bottom foam orientation. In comparison, the range of the expanded polystyrene material tested was about 103 grams-force to about 121 grams-force.

Puncture Resistance

Test Method

Determine the force and travel needed to puncture cup sidewall and bottom. An Instron instrument was used in compression mode set to 10 inches (254 mm) per minute travel speed. The cup puncture test fixture on base of Instron was used. This fixture allows the cup to fit over a shape that fits inside the cup with a top surface that is perpendicular to the travel of the Instron tester. The one inch diameter hole of the fixture should be positioned up. The portion of the Instron that moves should be fitted with a 0.300 inch (7.62 mm) diameter punch. The punch with the hole was aligned in the test fixture. The cup was placed over the fixture and the force and travel needed to puncture the cup sidewall was recorded. The sidewall puncture test was repeated in three evenly spaced locations while not puncture testing on the seam of the cup. The bottom of the cup was tested. This should be done in the same manner as the sidewall test except no fixture is used. The cup was just placed upside down on the base of the Instron while bringing the punch down on the center of the cup bottom.

Test Results

Results of the typical sidewall puncture and the bottom puncture are shown in Table 19 below.

TABLE 19 Puncture Test Results Cavity # Max Load (lbf) Ext. @ Max Load (in) Expanded polystyrene 3.79 0.300 Tested insulative 22.18 0.292 cellular non-aromatic polymeric material (no rim)

Slow Puncture Resistance—Straw

Test Method

The material as formed provides superior resistance in both side-top and side-bottom to punctures when compared to expanded polystyrene using the Slow Puncture Resistance Test Method as described in ASTM D-3763-86. The material as formed has unexpected slow puncture resistance due to lamination and orientation of film. The test results are shown in Tables 20-23 below.

Test Results

TABLE 20 Elongation At Specimen # Peak Load g(f) Break (mm) Tested Material Foam side-top 1 16610.63 — 2 15583.21 12 3 15412.19 — 4 16523.27 13 5 16077.38 — Mean 16041.33 12 Std. Dev. 539.29  0 Tested Material Foam side-bottom 1 15394.69 12 2 17044.93 — 3 15714.92 13 4 13533.55 — 5 11755.70 — 6 15988.77 — Mean 14905.43 12 Std. Dev. 1920.86  1

TABLE 21 Comparison: Expanded Polystyrene Elongation At Specimen # Peak Load g(f) Break (mm) 1 2936.73 — 2 2870.07 10 3 2572.62 — 4 2632.44 — 5 2809.70 — 6 2842.93 — 7 2654.55 — 8 2872.96 — 9 2487.63 — 10 2866.53 — 11 2803.25 — 12 2775.22 — 13 2834.28 — 14 2569.97 — Mean 2752.06 10 Std. Dev. 140.42 —

TABLE 22 Paper Wrapped Expanded Polystyrene Elongation At Specimen # Peak Load g(f) Break (mm) 1 7930.61 — 2 10044.30 — 3 9849.01 — 4 8711.44 — 5 9596.79 — 6 9302.99 — 7 10252.27 — 8 7785.64 — 9 8437.28 — 10 6751.98 — 11 9993.19 — Mean 8968.68 — Std. Dev. 1134.68 —

TABLE 23 Summary of Slow Puncture-Straw Test Results in Tables 20-22 Sample ID Tested insulative cellular Tested insulative cellular non- Expanded Paper wrapped non-aromatic polymeric aromatic polymeric material polystyrene expanded material cup, foam side top cup, foam side bottom (mean) (mean) grams-force polystyrene (mean) (mean) grams-force (gf) grams-force (gf) (gf) grams-force (gf) Avg gf: 16041 14,905 2752 8969

Dart Drop

Test Method

The material as formed provides superior resistance to punctures as described in ASTM D-1709. The dart impact value is a measure of the mass which is required to produce a 50% failure when the dart is dropped from 26 inches. The test result is shown in Table 24 below.

Test Results

TABLE 24 Dart Drop (26 inches) Cavity # Drop Mass (g) Tested insulative cellular non- 87 aromatic polymeric material cup, foam side top (mean) grams

Example 5 Formation

Material was made according to the process described in Example 3 hereinabove. The samples were labeled Sample A and Sample B for identification.

Sample A was the material itself.

Sample B was the material to which a printed film had been laminated as follows.

The film was composed of three layers: a core layer and two skin layers. The core layer was polypropylene based and comprised 90% of the film. The two skin layers were a blend of polypropylene and polyethylene and each skin layer made up 5% of the film. The film was printed using a printing ink that was a reverse printed solvent-based ink on a flexographic system.

The film was laminated to the sheet formed in Example 1 as follows. A 0.7 μm thick film was coated with 1.5 lbs per ream of solventless adhesive. The adhesive was composed of 2 parts urethane and 1 part isocyanate epoxy adhesive. The coated film was nipped to the material formed in Example 1. Lamination can be done by various processes, such as, but not limited to, flexo and winding roller systems.

Example 5 Test Results

Cell Size

The material formed in Example 5 had an average cell size in the cross direction (CD) of 18.45 mils height by 8.28 mils width. The aspect ratio was 2.23. The average cell size in the machine direction (DD) was 19.54 mils height by 8.53 mils width. The aspect ratio was 2.53.

Thermal Conductivity

The bulk Thermal Conductivity (W/m·K) of two samples was measured at 21° C. and 93° C. A ThermTest TPS 2500 S Thermal Constants Analyzer (available from ThermTest, Inc.) was the instrument chosen for all bulk thermal conductivity measurements. The TPS 2500 S analyzer meets the ISO Standard ISO/DIS 22007-2.2.

There were four stock sheets included for Sample A and two stock sheets included for Sample B. Sample A had a nominal thickness of 1.8 mm and Sample B had a nominal thickness of 2.0 mm. Briefly, the basic principle of the TPS analyzer system is the sample surrounds the TPS sensor in all directions and the heat evolved in the sensor freely diffuses in all directions. The solution to the thermal conductivity equation assumes the sensor is in an infinite medium, so the measurement and analysis of data must account for the limitation created by sample boundaries.

Each foam sample was layered to increase the available sample thickness and allow for optimal measurement parameters. For Sample A, 12 sample pieces were cut approximately 50 mm square and 6 layers were used on each side of the TPS sensor. For Sample B, 8 sample pieces were cut approximately 50 mm square and 4 layers were used on each side of the TPS sensor.

To measure the layered foam samples the Low Density/High Insulating Analysis Method was used. This method is useful for determining the bulk thermal conductivity of low density/high insulating materials in the order of magnitude of 0.1 W/m·K (and lower). The smaller TPS sensors were calibrated to correct for heat losses through the connecting wires and, as a result, bulk thermal conductivity results are accurate and consistent with the TPS System regardless of TPS sensor used. For the calibration of the TPS sensor used for these measurements, a characterized extruded polystyrene sample was measured with TPS sensor #5501 (6.403 mm radius). The sensor specific calibration coefficient was found to be 0.000198. The experimental setup was placed in the chamber of a Cascade™ TEK Model TFO-1 forced air lab oven. The chamber temperature was monitored with the onboard Watlow “ramp & soak controller.” A relaxation period of 60 minutes was implemented to ensure the foam samples were isothermal. Interfacial temperatures were checked by running preliminary TPS measurements to confirm isothermal stability. Multiple measurements were made on each sample at each temperature to confirm reproducibility.

Measurements were made using the TPS Standard Analysis Method and the Low Density/High Insulating option. TPS sensor #5501 (6.403 mm radius) with KAPTON® insulation was used. A 40 second test and 0.02 Watts of power were determined to be optimal test parameters.

The test results are shown in Tables 25 and 26 below.

TABLE 25 Sample A - Bulk Thermal Conductivity Results Temperature Temperature Sample (21° C.) (93° C.) Bulk thermal conductivity 0.05143 0.06391 (W/m · K) 0.05153 0.06398 0.05125 0.06375 0.05130 0.06396 0.05131 0.06385 Mean (W/m · K) 0.05136 0.06389 Standard Deviation (W/m · K) 0.00010 0.00008 RSD (%) 0.20 0.1

TABLE 26 Sample B - Bulk Thermal Conductivity Results Temperature Temperature Sample (21° C.) (93° C.) Bulk thermal conductivity 0.05343 0.06520 (W/m · K) 0.05316 0.06514 0.05322 0.06511 0.05315 0.06513 0.05309 0.06520 Mean (W/m · K) 0.05321 0.06516 Standard Deviation (W/m · K) 0.00012 0.00004 RSD (%) 0.22 0.06

Example 6 Formulation and Extrusion

DAPLOY™ WB140 HMS polypropylene homopolymer (available from Borealis A/S) was used as the polypropylene base resin. PP 527K, a polypropylene homopolymer resin (available from Sabic), was used as the secondary resin. The two resins were blended with: Hydrocerol™ CF-40E™ (available from Clariant Corporation) as a primary nucleation agent, talc as a secondary nucleation agent, CO₂ as a blowing agent, Ampacet™ 102823 LLDPE (linear low-density polyethylene), (available from Ampacet Corporation) as a slip agent, and titanium dioxide as a colorant. The colorant can be added to the base resin or to the secondary resin and may be done prior to mixing of the two resins. Percentages were:

76.45%    Primary resin 20%  Secondary resin 0.05%   Primary nucleating agent 0.5%  Secondary nucleating agent 1% Colorant 2% Slip agent

The formulation was added to an extruder hopper. The extruder heated the formulation to form a molten resin mixture. To this mixture was added

-   -   2.2 lbs/hr CO₂

The carbon dioxide was injected into the resin blend to expand the resin and reduce density. The mixture thus formed was extruded through a die head into a sheet. The sheet was then cut and formed into a cup.

Example 6 Test Results

The test results of the material formed according to Example 6 showed the material had a density of about 0.164 g/cm³ and a nominal sheet gauge of about 0.067 inches (1.7018 mm).

Rigidity

Test Method

Samples were at 73° F. (22.8° C.) and 50% relative humidity. The Cup Stiffness/Rigidity test was conducted with a horizontal force gauge containing a load cell to measure the resisting force of the cup when exposed to the following test conditions: (a) The test location on the cup was ⅓ down from the rim of the cup; (b) testing travel distance was 0.25 inches (6.35 mm); and (c) testing travel time was 10 seconds.

Test Results

With an average wall thickness of about 0.067 inches (1.7018 mm), average density of about 0.164 g/cm³, and average cup weight of about 10.6 g, the rigidity of the material are shown below in Tables 27-28.

TABLE 27A Rigidity Test Results unlidded/unfilled Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 1 0.670 0.712 0.691 2 0.729 0.649 0.689 3 0.721 0.737 0.729 4 0.678 0.689 0.684 5 0.696 0.713 0.705 0.700 STD DEV 0.018 3sigma 0.055 High Range 0.754 Low Range 0.645

TABLE 27B lidded/unfilled Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 6 1.263 1.355 1.309 7 1.313 1.322 1.318 8 1.279 1.327 1.303 9 1.334 1.366 1.350 10 1.320 1.290 1.305 1.317 STD DEV 0.019 3sigma 0.058 High Range 1.375 Low Range 1.259

TABLE 27C unlidded/filled 200° F. Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 11 0.319 0.287 0.303 12 0.298 0.286 0.292 13 0.300 0.296 0.298 14 0.310 0.299 0.305 15 0.302 0.279 0.291 0.298 STD DEV 0.006 3sigma 0.019 High Range 0.316 Low Range 0.279

TABLE 27D lidded/filled 200° F. Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 16 0.428 0.414 0.421 17 0.413 0.399 0.406 18 0.392 0.393 0.393 19 0.359 0.398 0.379 20 0.386 0.382 0.384 0.396 STD DEV 0.017 3sigma 0.052 High Range 0.448 Low Range 0.345

TABLE 27E lidded/filled ice water Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 21 1.784 1.754 1.769 22 1.721 1.724 1.723 23 1.745 1.801 1.773 24 1.677 1.733 1.705 25 1.641 1.741 1.691 1.732 STD DEV 0.037 3sigma 0.112 High Range 1.844 Low Range 1.620

TABLE 28 Summary of Rigidity Test Results of Tables 27A-E Unfilled Kg-F Ice Water Fill 35° F. Wall (kilograms-force) Hot Fill 200° F. Kg-F Kg-F Thickness Density Unlidded Lidded Unlidded Lidded Lidded Inches g/cc Test material 0.700 1.317 0.298 0.396 1.732 0.067 0.1636

Insulation

Test Method

A typical industrial cup insulation test method as follows was used:

-   -   Attach the (cup exterior) surface temperature thermocouple to         the cup with glue.     -   Tape attached thermocouple to the cup with cellophane tape so         that the thermocouple is in the middle of the cup opposite the         seam.     -   Heat water or other aqueous liquid to near boiling, such as in a         microwave.     -   Continually stir the hot liquid with a bulb thermometer while         observing the liquid temperature.     -   Record thermocouple temperature.     -   When the liquid gets to 200° F. (93.3° C.) pour into the cup to         near full.     -   Place lid on the cup.     -   Record surface temperature for a minimum of 5 minutes.

Test Results

A cup formed from the formulation noted above was used having an average wall thickness of about 0.067 inches (1.7018 mm), average density of about 0.164 g/cm³, and average cup weight of about 10.6 g. A hot liquid at 200° F. (93.3° C.) was placed in the cup.

Test Results

The temperature measured on the outside wall of the cup after 5 minutes was about 139.2° F. (59.5° C.) resulting in drop of about 60.8° F. (33.8° C.), as seen in FIG. 16. The maximum temperature over a five-minute period was observed to peak at about 143.2° F. (61.8° C.), as seen in FIG. 16. The lower the temperature, the better the insulation property of the cup material as the material reduces the heat transferring from the liquid to the cup material exterior.

Example 7 Formulation and Extrusion

DAPLOY™ WB140HMS polypropylene homopolymer (available from Borealis A/S) was used as the polypropylene base resin. PP 527K, a polypropylene homopolymer resin (available from Sabic), was used as the secondary resin. The two resins were blended with: Hydrocerol™ CF-40E™ (available from Clariant Corporation) as a primary nucleation agent, talc as a secondary nucleation agent, CO₂ as a blowing agent, Ampacet™ 102823 LLDPE (linear low-density polyethylene), (available from Ampacet Corporation) as a slip agent, and titanium dioxide as a colorant. The colorant can be added to the base resin or to the secondary resin and may be done prior to mixing of the two resins. Percentages were:

56.45%    Primary resin 40%  Secondary resin 0.05%   Primary nucleating agent 0.5%  Secondary nucleating agent 1% Colorant 2% Slip agent

The formulation was added to an extruder hopper. The extruder heated the formulation to form a molten resin mixture. To this mixture was added 2.2 lbs/hr CO₂

The carbon dioxide was injected into the resin blend to expand the resin and reduce density. The mixture thus formed was extruded through a die head into a sheet. The sheet was then cut and formed into a cup.

Example 7 Test Results

The test results of the material formed according to Example 7 showed the material had a density of about 0.166 g/cm³ and a nominal sheet gauge of about 0.067 inches (1.7018 mm).

Rigidity

Test Method

Samples were at 73° F. (22.8° C.) and 50% relative humidity. The Cup Stiffness/Rigidity test was conducted with a horizontal force gauge containing a load cell to measure the resisting force of the cup when exposed to the following test conditions: (a) The test location on the cup was ⅓ down from the rim of the cup; (b) testing travel distance is 0.25 inches (6.35 mm); and (c) testing travel time was 10 seconds.

Test Results

With an average wall thickness of about 0.067 inches (1.7018 mm), average density of about 0.166 g/cm³, and average cup weight of about 10.6 g, the rigidity of the material are shown below in Tables 29-30.

TABLE 29A Rigidity Test Results unlidded/unfilled Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 1 0.715 0.764 0.740 2 0.723 0.771 0.747 3 0.742 0.761 0.752 4 0.784 0.776 0.780 5 0.739 0.767 0.753 0.754 STD DEV 0.015 3sigma 0.046 High Range 0.800 Low Range 0.708

TABLE 29B unlidded/filled 200° F. Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 6 0.343 0.326 0.335 7 0.355 0.336 0.346 8 0.339 0.327 0.333 9 0.343 0.350 0.347 10 0.325 0.328 0.327 0.337 STD DEV 0.009 3sigma 0.026 High Range 0.363 Low Range 0.311

TABLE 29C lidded/filled 200° F. Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 11 0.437 0.438 0.438 12 0.479 0.408 0.444 13 0.423 0.446 0.435 14 0.448 0.432 0.440 15 0.443 0.464 0.454 0.442 STD DEV 0.007 3sigma 0.022 High Range 0.464 Low Range 0.420

TABLE 30 Summary of Rigidity Test Results of Tables 29A-C Unfilled Kg-F Wall (kilograms-force) Hot Fill 200° F. Kg-F Thickness Density Unlidded Unlidded Lidded Inches g/cc Test 0.754 0.337 0.442 0.067 0.166 material

Insulation

Test Method

A typical industrial cup insulation test method as follows was used:

-   -   Attach the (cup exterior) surface temperature thermocouple to         the cup with glue.     -   Tape attached thermocouple to the cup with cellophane tape so         that the thermocouple is in the middle of the cup opposite the         seam.     -   Heat water or other aqueous liquid to near boiling, such as in a         microwave.     -   Continually stir the hot liquid with a bulb thermometer while         observing the liquid temperature.     -   Record thermocouple temperature.     -   When the liquid gets to 200° F. (93.3° C.) pour into the cup to         near full.     -   Place lid on the cup.     -   Record surface temperature for a minimum of 5 minutes.

Test Results

A cup formed from the formulation noted above was used having an average wall thickness of about 0.067 inches (1.7018 mm), average density of about 0.166 g/cm³, and average cup weight of about 10.6 g. A hot liquid at 200° F. (93.3° C.) was placed in the cup.

The temperature measured on the outside wall of the cup after 5 minutes was about 144.3° F. (62.4° C.) resulting in drop of about 55.7° F. (30.9° C.), as seen in FIG. 17. The maximum temperature over a five-minute period was observed to peak at about 148.1° F. (64.5° C.), as seen in FIG. 17. The lower the temperature, the better the insulation property of the cup material as the material reduces the heat transferring from the liquid to the cup material exterior.

Example 8 Formulation and Extrusion

DAPLOY™ WB140 HMS polypropylene homopolymer (available from Borealis A/S) was used as the polypropylene base resin. F020HC polypropylene homopolymer resin (available from Braskem), was used as the secondary resin. The two resins were blended with: Hydrocerol™ CF-40E™ as a primary nucleation agent, HPR-803i fibers (available from Milliken) as a secondary nucleation agent, CO₂ as a blowing agent, Ampacet™ 102823 LLDPE as a slip agent, and titanium dioxide as a colorant. The colorant can be added to the base resin or to the secondary resin and may be done prior to mixing of the two resins. Percentages were:

80.95%    Primary resin 15%  Secondary resin 0.05%   Primary nucleating agent 1% Secondary nucleating agent 1% Colorant 2% Slip agent

The formulation was added to an extruder hopper. The extruder heated the formulation to form a molten resin mixture. To this mixture was added

-   -   2.2 lbs/hr CO₂

The carbon dioxide was injected into the resin blend to expand the resin and reduce density. The mixture thus formed was extruded through a die head into a sheet. The sheet was then cut and formed into a cup.

Example 8 Test Results

The test results of the material formed according to Example 8 showed the material had a density of about 0.166 g/cm³ and a nominal sheet gauge of about 0.067 inches (1.7018 mm).

Rigidity

Test Method

Samples were at 73° F. (22.8° C.) and 50% relative humidity. The Cup Stiffness/Rigidity test was conducted with a horizontal force gauge containing a load cell to measure the resisting force of the cup when exposed to the following test conditions: (a) The test location on the cup was ⅓ down from the rim of the cup; (b) testing travel distance is 0.25 inches (6.35 mm); and (c) testing travel time was 10 seconds.

Test Results

With an average wall thickness of about 0.067 inches (1.7018 mm), average density of about 0.166 g/cm³, and average cup weight of about 10.6 g, the rigidity of the material are shown below in Tables 31-32.

TABLE 31A Rigidity Test Results unlidded/unfilled Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 1 0.814 0.796 0.805 2 0.725 0.732 0.729 3 0.713 0.720 0.717 4 0.717 0.718 0.718 5 0.698 0.741 0.720 0.737 STD DEV 0.038 3sigma 0.114 High Range 0.852 Low Range 0.623

TABLE 31B lidded/unfilled Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 6 1.392 1.402 1.397 7 1.461 1.477 1.469 8 1.391 1.406 1.399 9 1.414 1.464 1.439 10 1.472 1.411 1.442 1.429 STD DEV 0.031 3sigma 0.093 High Range 1.522 Low Range 1.336

TABLE 31C unlidded/filled 200° F. Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 11 0.315 0.310 0.313 12 0.264 0.338 0.301 13 0.333 0.311 0.322 14 0.325 0.313 0.319 15 0.314 0.301 0.308 0.312 STD DEV 0.009 3sigma 0.026 High Range 0.338 Low Range 0.287

TABLE 31D lidded/filled 200° F. Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 16 0.445 0.473 0.459 17 0.459 0.445 0.452 18 0.441 0.442 0.442 19 0.472 0.472 0.472 20 0.429 0.453 0.441 0.453 STD DEV 0.013 3sigma 0.039 High Range 0.492 Low Range 0.414

TABLE 31E lidded/filled ice water Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 21 1.738 1.833 1.786 22 1.791 1.777 1.784 23 1.764 1.892 1.828 24 1.880 1.997 1.939 25 1.775 1.833 1.804 1.828 STD DEV 0.064 3sigma 0.193 High Range 2.021 Low Range 1.635

TABLE 32 Summary of Rigidity Test Results of Tables 31A-E Unfilled Kg-F Ice Water Fill 35° F. Wall (kilograms-force) Hot Fill 200° F. Kg-F Kg-F Thickness Density Unlidded Lidded Unlidded Lidded Lidded Inches g/cc Test material 0.737 1.429 0.312 0.453 1.828 0.067 0.166

Insulation

Test Method

A typical industrial cup insulation test method as follows was used:

-   -   Attach the (cup exterior) surface temperature thermocouple to         the cup with glue.     -   Tape attached thermocouple to cup with cellophane tape so that         the thermocouple is in the middle of the cup opposite the seam.     -   Heat water or other aqueous liquid to near boiling, such as in a         microwave.     -   Continually stir the hot liquid with a bulb thermometer while         observing the liquid temperature.     -   Record thermocouple temperature.     -   When the liquid gets to 200° F. (93.3° C.) pour into the cup to         near full.     -   Place lid on the cup.     -   Record surface temperature for a minimum of 5 minutes.

A cup formed from the formulation noted above was used having an average wall thickness of about 0.067 inches (1.7018 mm), average density of about 0.166 g/cm³, and average cup weight of about 10.6 g. A hot liquid at 200° F. (93.3° C.) was placed in the cup.

Test Results

The temperature measured on the outside wall of the cup after 5 minutes was about 144.8° F. (62.7° C.) resulting in drop of about 55.2° F. (30.6° C.), as seen in FIG. 18. The maximum temperature over a five-minute period was observed to peak at about 149.1° F. (65.1° C.), as seen in FIG. 18. The lower the temperature, the better the insulation property of the cup material as the material reduces the heat transferring from the liquid to the cup material exterior.

Example 9 Formulation and Extrusion

Example 9 utilizes the same formulation and extrusion method as described in Example 3 hereinabove.

Example 9 Test Results

The test results of the material formed according to Example 9 showed the material had a density of about 0.160 g/cm³ and a nominal sheet gauge of about 0.058 inches (1.473 mm).

Rigidity

Test Method

Samples were at 73° F. (22.8° C.) and 50% relative humidity. The Cup Stiffness/Rigidity test was conducted with a horizontal force gauge containing a load cell to measure the resisting force of the cup when exposed to the following test conditions: (a) The test location on the cup was ⅓ down from the rim of the cup; (b) testing travel distance is 0.25 inches (6.35 mm); and (c) testing travel time was 10 seconds.

Test Results

With an average wall thickness of about 0.058 inches (1.473 mm), average density of about 0.160 g/cm³, and average cup weight of about 9.9 g, the rigidity of the material are shown below in Tables 33-34.

TABLE 33A Rigidity Test Results unlidded/unfilled Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 1 0.737 0.680 0.709 2 0.602 0.596 0.599 3 0.620 0.585 0.603 4 0.637 0.611 0.624 5 0.585 0.613 0.599 0.627 STD DEV 0.047 3sigma 0.141 High Range 0.767 Low Range 0.486

TABLE 33B lidded/unfilled Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 6 1.378 1.321 1.350 7 1.255 1.401 1.328 8 1.286 1.390 1.338 9 1.279 1.244 1.262 10 1.337 1.378 1.358 1.327 STD DEV 0.038 3sigma 0.115 High Range 1.442 Low Range 1.212

TABLE 33C unlidded/filled 200° F. Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 11 0.286 0.274 0.280 12 0.301 0.280 0.291 13 0.298 0.277 0.288 14 0.303 0.276 0.290 15 0.294 0.269 0.282 0.286 STD DEV 0.005 3sigma 0.014 High Range 0.300 Low Range 0.272

TABLE 33D lidded/filled 200° F. Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 16 0.355 0.367 0.361 17 0.447 0.409 0.428 18 0.398 0.385 0.392 19 0.379 0.377 0.378 20 0.390 0.366 0.378 0.387 STD DEV 0.025 3sigma 0.076 High Range 0.463 Low Range 0.312

TABLE 33E lidded/filled ice water Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 21 1.764 1.686 1.725 22 1.702 1.712 1.707 23 1.772 1.847 1.810 24 1.700 1.810 1.755 25 1.710 1.831 1.771 1.753 STD DEV 0.040 3sigma 0.120 High Range 1.873 Low Range 1.633

TABLE 34 Summary of Rigidity Test Results of Tables 33A-E Unfilled Kg-F Ice Water Fill 35° F. Wall (kilograms-force) Hot Fill 200° F. Kg-F Kg-F Thickness Density Unlidded Lidded Unlidded Lidded Lidded Inches g/cc Test material 0.627 1.327 0.286 0.387 1.753 0.067 0.1636

Insulation

Test Method

The test method used to test for insulation was as described hereinabove in Example 3 insulation test method.

A cup formed from the formulation noted above was used having an average wall thickness of about 0.058 inches (1.473 mm), average density of about 0.160 g/cm³, and average cup weight of about 9.9 g. A hot liquid at 200° F. (93.3° C.) was placed in the cup.

Test Results

The temperature measured on the outside wall of the cup after 5 minutes was about 142.1° F. (61.2° C.) resulting in drop of about 57.9° F. (32.1° C.), as seen in FIG. 19. The maximum temperature over a five-minute period was observed to peak at about 146.0° F. (63.3° C.), as seen in FIG. 19. The lower the temperature, the better the insulation property of the cup material as the material reduces the heat transferring from the liquid to the cup material exterior.

Example 10 Formulation and Extrusion

Example 10 utilizes the same formulation and extrusion method as described in Example 3 hereinabove.

Example 10 Test Results

The test results of the material formed according to Example 10 showed the material had a density of about 0.186 g/cm³ and a nominal sheet gauge of about 0.065 inches (1.651 mm).

Rigidity

Test Method

Samples were at 73° F. (22.8° C.) and 50% relative humidity. The Cup Stiffness/Rigidity test was conducted with a horizontal force gauge containing a load cell to measure the resisting force of the cup when exposed to the following test conditions: (a) The test location on the cup was ⅓ down from the rim of the cup; (b) testing travel distance is 0.25 inches (6.35 mm); and (c) testing travel time was 10 seconds.

Test Results

With an average wall thickness of about 0.065 inches (1.651 mm), average density of about 0.186 g/cm³, and average cup weight of about 11.9 g, the rigidity of the material are shown below in Tables 35-36.

TABLE 35A Rigidity Test Results unlidded/unfilled Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 1 0.716 0.758 0.737 2 0.708 0.796 0.752 3 0.724 0.764 0.744 4 0.730 0.735 0.733 5 0.731 0.737 0.734 0.740 STD DEV 0.008 3sigma 0.024 High Range 0.764 Low Range 0.716

TABLE 35B lidded/unfilled Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 6 1.372 1.420 1.396 7 1.311 1.326 1.319 8 1.404 1.341 1.373 9 1.352 1.352 1.352 10 1.377 1.371 1.374 1.363 STD DEV 0.029 3sigma 0.087 High Range 1.450 Low Range 1.275

TABLE 35C unlidded/filled 200° F. Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 11 0.310 0.309 0.310 12 0.338 0.305 0.322 13 0.326 0.313 0.320 14 0.315 0.326 0.321 15 0.313 0.306 0.310 0.316 STD DEV 0.006 3sigma 0.018 High Range 0.334 Low Range 0.298

TABLE 35D lidded/filled 200° F. Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 16 0.434 0.404 0.419 17 0.428 0.392 0.410 18 0.416 0.428 0.422 19 0.408 0.426 0.417 20 0.440 0.429 0.435 0.421 STD DEV 0.009 3sigma 0.027 High Range 0.447 Low Range 0.394

TABLE 35E lidded/filled ice water Rigidity (kg-F) Cup # Seam 90° from Seam Average 21 1.934 1.884 1.909 22 1.849 1.884 1.867 23 1.822 1.902 1.862 24 1.806 1.948 1.877 25 1.783 1.896 1.840 1.871 STD DEV 0.025 3sigma 0.076 High Range 1.947 Low Range 1.795

TABLE 36 Summary of Rigidity Test Results of Tables 35A-E Unfilled Kg-F Ice Water Fill 35° F. Wall (kilograms-force) Hot Fill 200° F. Kg-F Kg-F Thickness Density Unlidded Lidded Unlidded Lidded Lidded Inches g/cc Test material 0.740 1.363 0.316 0.421 1.871 0.065 0.186

Insulation

Test Method

The test method used to test for insulation is as described in Example 3 insulation test method hereinabove.

Test Results

A cup formed from the formulation noted above was used having an average wall thickness of about 0.065 inches (1.651 mm), average density of about 0.186 g/cm³, and average cup weight of about 11.9 g. A hot liquid at 200° F. (93.3° C.) was placed in the cup.

The temperature measured on the outside wall of the cup after 5 minutes was about 144.5° F. (62.5° C.) resulting in drop of about 55.5° F. (30.8° C.), as seen in FIG. 20. The maximum temperature over a five-minute period was observed to peak at about 149.1° F. (65.1° C.), as seen in FIG. 20. The lower the temperature, the better the insulation property of the cup material as the material reduces the heat transferring from the liquid to the cup material exterior.

Example 11 Formulation and Extrusion

DAPLOY™ WB140 polypropylene homopolymer (available from Borealis A/S) was used as the polypropylene base resin. F020HC, available from Braskem, a polypropylene homopolymer resin, was used as the secondary resin. The two resins were blended with: Hydrocerol™ CF-40E™ as a chemical blowing agent, talc as a nucleation agent, CO₂ as a physical blowing agent, a slip agent, and Ampacet blue-white as a colorant. The colorant can be added to the base resin or to the secondary resin and may be done prior to mixing of the two resins. Percentages were:

80.20%  Primary Resin: Borealis WB140 HMS high melt strength homopolymer polypropylene  15% Secondary Resin: Braskem F020HC homopolymer poly- propylene 0.1% Chemical Blowing Agent: Clariant Hyrocerol CF-40E ™ 1.4% Nucleation Agent: Heritage Plastics HT4HP Talc 0.8% Colorant: AMPACET ™ J11 2.5% Slip agent: AMPACET ™ 102823 9.8 lbs/hr CO₂ physical blowing agent introduced into the molten resin

The formulation was added to an extruder hopper. The extruder heated the formulation to form a molten resin mixture. To this mixture was added the CO₂ to expand the resin and reduce density. The mixture thus formed was extruded through a die head into a strip. The strip was then cut and formed into insulative cup.

The carbon dioxide was injected into the resin blend to expand the resin and reduce density. The mixture thus formed was extruded through a die head into a sheet. The sheet was then cut and formed into a cup.

Example 12 Formulation and Extrusion

DAPLOY™ WB140 polypropylene homopolymer (available from Borealis A/S) was used as the polypropylene base resin. F020HC, available from Braskem, a polypropylene homopolymer resin, was used as the secondary resin. The two resins were blended with: Hydrocerol™ CF-40E™ as a chemical blowing agent (CBA), talc as a nucleation agent, CO₂ as a physical blowing agent, a slip agent, and Ampacet blue-white as a colorant. The colorant can be added to the base resin or to the secondary resin and may be done prior to mixing of the two resins. Percentages were:

Formulation A Formulation B Formulation C Primary Resin 86.29%    86.77%  86.47%  Secondary Resin 10%   10%  10% CBA 0.11%   0.13%  0.13%  Talc 1% 0.6% 0.8% Colorant 1% 0.5% 0.6% Slip Agent 2%  2%  2% CO₂ 9.8 lbs/hr 9.8 lbs/hr 9.8 lbs/hr

The formulations were added to an extruder hopper. The extruder heated the formulations to form a molten resin mixture. To each mixture was added the CO₂ to expand the resin and reduce density. The mixtures thus formed were extruded through a die head into a strip. The strips were then cut and formed into insulative cups.

The carbon dioxide was injected into the resin blend to expand the resin and reduce density. The mixtures thus formed were extruded through a die head into a sheet. The sheets were then cut and formed into a cup.

Although only a number of exemplary embodiments have been described in detail above, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the exemplary embodiments without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure as defined in the following claims.

As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.

“Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.

Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the word “comprise” and variations of the word, such as “comprising” and “comprises,” means “including but not limited to,” and is not intended to exclude, for example, other additives, components, integers or steps. “Exemplary” means “an example of” and is not intended to convey an indication of a preferred or ideal embodiment. “Such as” is not used in a restrictive sense, but for explanatory purposes.

Disclosed are components that can be used to perform the disclosed methods, equipment, and systems. These and other components are disclosed herein, and it is understood that when combinations, subsets, interactions, groups, etc. of these components are disclosed while specific reference of each various individual and collective combinations and permutation of these may not be explicitly disclosed, each is specifically contemplated and described herein, for all methods, equipment and systems. This applies to all aspects of this application including, but not limited to, steps in disclosed methods. Thus, if there are a variety of additional steps that can be performed it is understood that each of these additional steps can be performed with any specific embodiment or combination of embodiments of the disclosed methods.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the scope or spirit of the present disclosure. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only.

It should further be noted that any publications and brochures referred to herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. 

1. A polymeric formulation comprising about 50-99.9 wt % of a base resin, up to about 10 wt % of a slip agent, up to about 10 wt % of a chemical blowing agent, and about 0.5-10 wt % of a nucleating agent.
 2. (canceled)
 3. The polymeric formulation of claim 1, wherein the base resin is about 95 to 98 wt %.
 4. (canceled)
 5. The polymeric formulation of claim 3, wherein the base resin is about 96 wt % to about 97 wt %.
 6. The polymeric formulation of any of claim 1, wherein the base resin comprises a secondary base resin.
 7. The polymeric formulation of claim 6, wherein the secondary base resin is up to about 50 wt %.
 8. The polymeric formulation of claim 6, wherein the secondary base resin is up to about 10 wt %. 9-11. (canceled)
 12. The polymeric formulation of claim 8, wherein the secondary base resin is a polypropylene resin. 13-15. (canceled)
 16. The polymeric formulation of claim 1, wherein the slip agent is about 1 to 3 wt %.
 17. (canceled)
 18. The polymeric formulation of claim 1 further comprising up to about 10 wt % of a colorant.
 19. The polymeric formulation of claim 18, wherein the colorant is up to about 5 wt %.
 20. (canceled)
 21. The polymeric formulation of claim 19, wherein the colorant is about 0.5 to 2 wt %. 22-23. (canceled)
 24. The polymeric formulation of claim 1, wherein the nucleating agent is about 0.5 to 5 wt %. 25-26. (canceled)
 27. The polymeric formulation of claim 24, wherein the chemical blowing agent is about 0.1 to 2 wt %.
 28. (canceled)
 29. The polymeric formulation of claim 27, wherein the chemical blowing agent is about 0.1 wt %. 30-34. (canceled)
 35. The polymeric formulation of claim 1, wherein the nucleating agent is selected from the group consisting of a chemical nucleating agent, a physical nucleating agent, and a combination of a chemical nucleating agent and a physical nucleating agent.
 36. The polymeric formulation of claim 35, wherein the chemical nucleating agent is citric acid or a citric acid-based material.
 37. The polymeric formulation of claim 35, wherein the physical nucleating agent is selected from the group consisting of talc, CaCO₃, mica, kaolin clay, chitin, aluminosilicates, graphite, cellulose, and mixtures of at least two of the foregoing. 38-43. (canceled)
 44. The polymeric formulation of claim 1, wherein the physical blowing agent is at least one gas that is introduced as a liquid under pressure into a molten resin.
 45. (canceled)
 46. The polymeric formulation of claim 1, wherein the slip agent is an amide of fat or fatty acid, a low molecular weight amide, or fluoroelastomer. 47-79. (canceled)
 80. A polymeric formulation comprising a) about 96 wt % or 97 wt % of a base resin, wherein the base resin comprises about 10 wt % of a secondary base resin; b) about 2 wt % of a slip agent; c) about 0.5 wt % of a colorant; d) about 0.1 wt % of a chemical blowing agent; and e) about 0.5% of a nucleating agent. 